Psychological Correlates of Professionalism and Goal-Oriented Behavior Among Postgraduate Medical Residents in Pakistan

Professionalism and goal-oriented behavior are essential constructs within psychological and educational growth of medical residents. Based on self-determination theory and achievement goal theory, the present research explored the relationship between professionalism dimensions and goal-oriented behaviors within postgraduate residents in Pakistan. A cross-sectional quantitative design was used with 150 medical residents of CMH Multan Institute of Medical Sciences. Professionalism was determined with the Professionalism Assessment Tool (PAT), and motivational orientation was determined with the General Achievement Goal Orientation Scale (GAGOS). High professionalism was found, with ethics and altruism as the highest rated, followed by communication as the lowest. Mastery and global motivation were the most prominent goal orientations. Pearson correlation revealed a moderately positive and significant association between goal-oriented behavior and professionalism (r = 0.656, <i>p</i> < .001). Linear regression indicated that goal-oriented behavior accounted for 43% of the variance in professionalism (R² = 0.43). Regression analysis showed that goal-oriented behavior was moderately positively correlated with professionalism, and global motivation was the best predictor. The results highlight the significance of intrinsic motivation and self-regulated learning to promote professionalism and justify the integration of psychological concepts in medical training. The current research adds to the psychological body of knowledge in motivation and identity formation in clinical education settings.