Comprehensive Analysis of Empathy by Using Jefferson Scale of Empathy – Student Version Among Undergraduate Medical and Dental Students: Comprehensive Analysis of Empathy by Using Jefferson Scale of Empathy Student Version

Sana Noor; Anusha Nauroz Ali; Faryal Arif; Aneeqa Ravail; Arbia Ihsan; Izza Siddiqui

doi:10.54393/pjhs.v5i09.2009

Authors

Sana Noor Community Medicine, Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
Anusha Nauroz Ali Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
Faryal Arif Nishter Hospital, Multan, Pakistan
Aneeqa Ravail Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
Arbia Ihsan Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
Izza Siddiqui Avicenna Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pjhs.v5i09.2009

Keywords:

Jefferson Scale of Empathy, Emotional Intelligence, Medical Students

Abstract

Empathy is essential in medicine, but many healthcare professionals struggle to integrate empathetic communication in practice. This study aims to assess empathy levels among medical and dental students and their association with age. Objectives: To evaluate empathy levels among medical and dental students using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy-Student Version and examine the correlation with age. Methods: Conducted at a private medical college in Lahore, this study involved 324 medical and dental students. Empathy levels were measured using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy and the data were analyzed with SPSS version 24.0. Non-parametric tests were employed to assess differences in the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy and subscale scores among participants, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: The average Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy score was 66.67 ± 9.5. Among the subscales, "standing in the patient's shoes" had the lowest average score. Bachelor of Dental Surgery students scored slightly higher in perspective-taking and compassionate care, while MBBS students scored higher in standing in the patient's shoes. An inverse relationship between age and empathy scores was observed, with older students exhibiting lower empathy levels. Conclusions: It was concluded that Empathy levels among medical students in Pakistan were lower compared to international studies. Emphasizing empathy in medical education should be a priority to enhance compassionate care and professional development among future healthcare professionals.

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