Empathy spectrum in clinical residents: the role of age, year of study, and specialty

Aim . To evaluate the applicability of the Empathy Components Questionnaire (ECQ) for measuring empathy levels in clinical residents, to identify factors associated with empathy, and to determine prospects for further research. Material and methods . This cross-sectional observational study of 53 clinical residents was conducted using the Russian version of the ECQ. Non-parametric tests, multiple linear regression, and Cronbach’s α were applied. Results . The internal consistency of the total ECQ scale was good (α=0,85). The total score was 84,0 (78,0; 89,0). A following U-shaped age-related dynamic was identified for cognitive and affective abilities: the highest values were observed in the ≤25 age group, and the lowest in the 26-28 age group (p < 0,05). No differences were found regarding the year of residency or the specialty. Regression models did not reach significance (R2 ≤0,09). Conclusion . The study results support the use of the ECQ for assessing empathy in professional medical cohorts. Age is a more informative predictor of empathy level changes than the formal year of residency. The low level of cognitive and affective empathy components in the 26- 28 age group serves as an important practical indicator, highlighting the need to develop and implement psychological and pedagogical support programs specifically for residents of this age. The identified patterns suggest a need for further research into factors influencing residents' empathy, as a sufficient level of empathy is a prerequisite for the highquality performance of professional medical duties.