Factors influencing the professional identity of students in medical university: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: Currently, university students lack in-depth understanding of the diverse study fields which decreases their professional identity. Therefore, strategies aimed at improving students’ professional identity need to be formulated. This study aimed to determine the current factors influencing medical university students' professional identity. The findings of this research will provide ideas for improving the professional identity level of university students. Methods: students at a medical university in China participated in a survey in 2022. In the first part of the survey, a Professional Identity Questionnaire was used to determine their professional identity level as the dependent variable. In the second part of the survey, four dimensions including personal, family, peer and professional circumstance were investigated as the independent variables. Subsequently, the correlations between factors and professional identity were explored, as well as the degree of influence each factor on professional identity. Results: The analysis showed that all dimensions affected the professional identity of the students. Students with one of the following characteristics were found having lower professional identity level than others: male, in the graduating year, poor academic performance, change of major against their intention,with poor academic performance, from rural areas, and in poor economic status, students who cannot get along well with their peers and students whose peers had intention to change their majors. All factors of professional circumstance dimension had significantly positive influences on professional identity, with the prospect and status element having the most significant effect. Conclusions:Students with one of the following characteristics should be paid attention: male, in graduating year, change of major against their intention, with poor academic performance, from rural areas, and in poor economic status. The interpersonal relationship between students and their peers also deserve attention as well as the majors' value, learning environment, training objectives, prospect and status. Several initiatives should be developed and implemented to enhance students’ professional identity according to the above results.