Effective Feedback in Medical Education: Navigating Emoti-Stunned Feedback

This is the third article in the Effective Feedback Series, intended to equip medical supervisors with practical tools and tips for delivering guidance to learners during clinical training.

"Withholding feedback is choosing comfort over growth."

—Adam Grant

BEWARE: In the domain of medical education, feedback is an expectation; however, in so doing, educators may occasionally encounter an unexpected emotional reaction from a learner and become momentarily “emoti-stunned,” unsure how to proceed.

REPAIR: The immediate priority is to pause. Gently ask the learner if they are comfortable continuing the conversation. If they affirm, acknowledge and address the emotional response. If not, express understanding and collaboratively schedule a time to resume when the learner feels ready.

PREPARE: After an “emoti-stunned” feedback session, educators are encouraged to engage in self-reflection. Consider whether the conversation may have triggered issues related to the learner’s identity, personal history, or professional development. Consider your own reactions and explore any potential implicit biases that may have influenced the interaction.  By recognizing and thoughtfully responding to “emoti-stunned” moments, medical educators can foster psychologically safe learning environments for themselves as well as their learners.

For more information, you may listen to this Curbsiders Teach Podcast featuring an interview with Dr. Reeni Abraham, MD, Associate Vice Chair for Undergraduate Medical Education on emotion during a feedback conversation.

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Citation: Palaganas, Janice C. Phd, APRN: Edwards, Roger A. ScD. Six Common Pitfall of Feedback Conversations. Academic Medicine 96(2):p 313, Feb. 2021