Using Politeness Theory to Deconstruct How Preregistrant Pharmacists Approach Disagreement in the Workplace

This study shows that preregistrant pharmacists are aware of the principles of face-work. While the study only reflects what participants believe they would do, not their actual ability in professional disputes, it supports current research that students need simulated low-stakes opportunities to practice communication skills before entering the workplace, especially where situational urgency is present. Integration of politeness theory in workshop and feedback design could help students to link awareness to actual interaction, although the theory should be expanded to integrate urgency as a factor impacting all levels of interactional decision-making.