Professional identity formation among mental health professionals in India: A document analysis

A wide range of professionals with diverse training and disciplinary orientations are considered mental health professionals. This can result in an ambiguous professional identity, role confusion, and professional tensions. Recent studies explore the implications of role confusion and professional tensions on mental health service delivery. However, there is a dearth of research on how systemic factors, such as laws and policies, influence professional identity and contribute to role confusion and professional tensions. The present study uses qualitative document analysis to examine the historical evolution of mental health professionals in India’s laws and policies. The findings illustrate significant ambiguities around the concept of mental health professionals. This ambiguity, alongside the thrust for a biomedical approach in mental health care, has historically divided psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses. The paper discusses its implications for professional training and practice. Further, recommendations are given to address these issues and foster a collaborative, inclusive, and well-regulated mental health workforce.