Supervisors’ Views about their Trainees and Supervision

Abstract

Objectives: Supervision is central to psychiatry training, yet it has been poorly defined and has attracted little research attention. In this study we explore supervisors’ perceptions of their role. This paper is the second of two, with the first exploring trainees’ perceptions of supervisors and supervision.

Methods: Using qualitative methods, 21 supervisors were interviewed, and the data subjected to thematic analysis.

Results: Participants identified a number of aspects characteristic of the role of supervisor. There was some confusion, however, about the role, and some disparity between supervisors around what can be reasonably expected by a trainee in supervision.

Conclusions: Supervisors need a clear definition of their role and responsibilities, and should be monitored and mentored. This is particularly important, given the central role that supervisors are expected to perform at College level.