Family Systems Training for Medical Students

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate whether a workshop on family systems delivered to medical students could improve participants’ understanding of families from a systemic point of view and help them recognise and address systemic issues that may be affecting their patients. Method: Fifth year (senior) medical students ( n = 36) from the University of Auckland participated in a 90-min workshop about family systems. Pre- and post-workshop, self-reported measures of knowledge and confidence were completed and qualitative feedback was also obtained from participants. Results: The workshop was well received and its interactive and role-play based nature were particularly appreciated. Participants reported gains in all explored areas of knowledge and understanding, suggesting that the workshop met its desired aims. Conclusions: This workshop is an educationally effective and expedient way to equip medical students with some knowledge and understanding about family systems. It may benefit their future work with individual patients and families.