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Table 1 Characteristics of ‘Heroes’ and ‘Villains’ among medical role models

From: The Heroic and the Villainous: a qualitative study characterising the role models that shaped senior doctors’ professional identity

Hero (enables and promotes learning)

Villain (inhibits and prevents learning)

Shows and deals appropriately with emotion

Not able to deal with emotion – especially when bad things happen

Helpful

Bombastic

Supportive

Arrogant

Makes you reflect on own values

Dismissive of concerns

Good communicator

Hierarchical

Listens

Doesn’t listen

Able to interact with people

Elitist

Has high expectations

Directive

Flexible

Rigid / Inflexible

Gives praise (when due)

Intimidating

Good fun

Autocratic

Challenging (extends you)

Judgmental

Appreciates effort

Sexist

Gives autonomy in stages

Bullying

Left field – or not afraid to be individual

Unreasonable

Social

(Can be) highly skilled/knowledgeable

Highly skilled / knowledgeable/competent

 

Respected and respectful