Impact of Locus of Control on Oncologists' Communication Skills
Author Information
Author(s): Yves Libert, Janne P, Darius Razavi, Isabelle Merckaert, Philippe Scalliet, Nadine Delvaux, A-M Etienne, S Conradt, J Klastersky, J Boniver, C Reynaert
Primary Institution: Université Catholique de Louvain
Hypothesis
Physicians with external locus of control would use more appropriate communication skills with cancer patients than those with internal locus of control.
Conclusion
Physicians with an external locus of control provided more appropriate information and less premature information during oncological interviews compared to those with an internal locus of control.
Supporting Evidence
- Physicians with external LOC provided more appropriate information in simulated interviews.
- Physicians with internal LOC gave more premature information in clinical interviews.
- Physicians' LOC influenced their communication styles with cancer patients.
Takeaway
Doctors who think outside forces control their lives are better at talking to cancer patients than those who think they control everything.
Methodology
The study analyzed communication skills in simulated and clinical interviews of oncologists, comparing those with internal and external locus of control.
Potential Biases
The study may be biased as it only included physicians who were interested in improving their communication skills.
Limitations
The sample may not represent all oncologists as only motivated physicians participated in the training program.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 75 physicians, with a mean age of 42 years, consisting of 45 males and 30 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.011 for appropriate information; p=0.015 for premature information.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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