The Otolaryngologist as a Role Model

Abstract

Throughout our daily interactions with medical students and residents, each of us, whether we like it or not, functions as a role model. Since role modeling is primarily a passive function — teaching by example — we may not be acutely aware of this role and its importance. In what respect is the concept of the role model important to otolaryngology—head and neck surgery? In addition to the function of specific training — teaching the trade — most of the literature on role modeling cites 2 major areas of significance: 1) influencing medical students' career choices and 2) facilitating socialization into the world of medicine with the establishment of an appropriate professional identity. This brief article reviews some of the current literature, catalogs those attributes that have been identified as those of excellent role models, and offers some thoughts as to what our specialty might consider in response to the challenges to medical education in the changing health care environment.