Early-career genetic counselors' professional identity formation through experiences with continuing education at a professional conference

This research aimed to describe professional identity (PI) and professional identity formation (PIF) of early-career genetic counselors (GCs) attending a professional conference. PI is a sense of self within a professional community and includes interpersonal and intrapersonal characteristics that reflect shared values of the field. PI can be learned through modeling in settings like conferences where professionals assemble and are engaged in continuing education (CE). Using a particularistic case study methodology and a social learning theory frame, this study explored how PI is modeled and the experiences that contribute to feelings of belonging in the profession. Participants were newly certified GCs who attended the 2022 National Society of Genetic Counselors Annual Conference. Sixteen participants completed a reflective writing prompt and two semi-structured interviews. Inductive open coding and refinement of codes resulted in four primary collective themes. (1) Awareness of PI and PIF: All participants described elements of the collective identity of GCs, though most were unaware of the term “professional identity.” (2) Modeling of PI and PIF: Elements of identity were modeled in CE sessions and social settings. Participants noted concordance and discordance with other GCs, including perceived discrepancies between early-career and experienced GCs on the value of diversity and inclusivity. (3) Conference experience: In-person and virtual conference formats differed in community-building, inclusion, accessibility, and socialization. (4) Factors/experiences influencing belonging: Sense of community, CE session content, affirmation from others, and personal identity or characteristics like appearance impacted feelings of belonging. Findings indicate early-career GCs have emerging awareness of PI, suggesting opportunities to integrate strategies that promote PIF and strengthen PI, including equitable social opportunities for in-person and virtual attendees. Early-career GCs described how others influence feelings of belonging, highlighting a role for all GCs in supporting PIF.