Balint training in medical school: Differences in perception by age and gender

Abstract

Balint training was originally developed as a means for improving the doctor-patient relationship. In recent years Balint groups have become part of medical students' training during their clinical clerkships. The purpose of the study was to explore whether gender and age differences affect medical students' perceptions of Balint training. A total of 72 students in the fourth year at the Hebrew University Medical School completed a questionnaire on their perception of the importance of Balint training. A significant difference by gender was found but not for age. As the percentage of female medical students is expected to increase over the next few years, the inclusion of Balint training in schools that have not yet included it in their curriculum would be appropriate.