Definitions of professional identity formation. A review of the literature and conceptual analysis

Aim: The purpose of this review is to better understand the terminology of professional identity formation (PIF). Guided by the question: “How is PIF defined?”, the article aims at delivering an overview and an analysis of so far established ways of understanding PIF focusing on explicit definitions and main conceptual contributions. Method: A systematic literature search was conducted via MEDLINE and CINAHL. The PRISMA framework was used to support a comprehensive search strategy and screening. In a first step of our conceptual analysis texts were analyzed regarding explicit definitions. In a second analytical step the main foci of the articles as well as different elements of PIF definitions were analyzed by comparing the structure and content of the definitions. Results: 25 of 639 articles met the eligibility criteria. We identified three categories for a further conceptual analysis of the definitions according to the questions: (1) On which aspects of “becoming a physician” is PIF focusing? (2) What are further properties of PIF? (3) What is the result of PIF? Additionally, the main foci of the identified articles were taken into account. The main foci of the identified articles showed diverse intentions regarding PIF. Most often “values” and “norms” were focused aspects of definitions. Regarding further properties of PIF a variety of aspects are stated unsystematically. Possible results of PIF mentioned in or in the context of definitions are most frequently to “think, act, and feel like a physician”. Conclusion: The review and analysis offer an overview over ways to define PIF and typical elements. Contextualization of these results within the publication history of PIF will further the understanding of the term’s development as well as its potential for a more comprehensive definition.