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Feedback is a funny thing. Sometimes constructively critical, other times distractingly violent, and still on other occasions, thoughtlessly positive, feedback is a real part of our twenty-first century American society. I wonder if it is so highly valued in other countries.
Recently, I had my semi-annual review with my program director. She did a good job of providing good feedback from my peers, faculty, as well as herself from perceptions she had made throughout the semester, both positive and constructive. I have also had my share of comical feedback sessions, where the evaluator tickled my ears with the words that I wanted to hear (while the grade did not always match the message). I find that especially in pediatrics, we focus on the positive and have a hard time addressing the negative. This presents a problem when we have the really terrible medical student or worse, awful, dangerous resident, who really needs some constructive feedback. It usually leads to toxic environments, where passive aggressiveness is king.
Last week, we talked formally about feedback in a resident noon conference with our program director. During the conference, she showed this clip. Though a little harsh (especially the defibrillating at the end), I like Dr. Cox's straight-shooting. I think people in my residency program (myself included) sometimes need a lecture like this to make the message sink in - rather than the carefully-crafted "criticism sandwich" (positive - negative - positive) that often carries a diluted message.
For better or worse, feedback is here and we need to learn how to do receive and give it well. Anyone have any wisdom on improving feedback?
Hotel Villa Margherita Italy
7 years ago
3 comments:
I've thought about this a lot since I've classically been horrible at receiving feedback. What I've learned is to receive it without hearing it as a definition of identity. Identity is secure, but all of us have parts of our personality and character that need criticism. I can receive constructive feedback without feeling that my identity hangs in the balance. I want to grow into the kind of person that graciously receives and gives-a woman full of Grace and Truth.
Your critics can be your teachers. Criticism thoughtfully conceived and effectively offered is a valuable gift and an affirmation of your value to the critic. No one improves without criticism, and well-meant criticism is an attempt to help another raise his or her level of performance. Check out Proverbs 12:1
Well said, ladies. Nat, I am also working on healthily considering and acting on criticism. Terrie, I think you are right. I wish I received more good criticism and shared better accountability with people in my life to be honest. Thanks for your thoughts.
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