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Morera D, Delgado J, Lorenzo E, de Castro-Peraza ME, Delgado N. "Superheroes? No, thanks." Accepting vulnerability in healthcare professionals. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2024; 22:16. [PMID: 38378609 PMCID: PMC10877781 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-024-00899-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
In this commentary, we develop a conceptual proposal aimed to explain why a discourse of praise and admiration for healthcare professionals´ limitless dedication can trigger a general indifference to the burnout and suffering they experience. Ultimately, this can lead to the justification of the lack of resources dedicated to preventing these problems. We first start by pointing out the stigmatisation of healthcare professionals suffering from burnout and showing their vulnerability, highlighting the complex interactions that occur in the healthcare context and that increase the risk of perpetuating their suffering. Then, we appeal to the recognition of one's own vulnerability as a key element towards the creation of a culture more focused on the duty of care for those who care for others. We conclude with several proposals for action to cope with burnout-related stigma, trying to change the superhuman image of health personnel and incorporating the vulnerability inherent to human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores Morera
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universidad de La Laguna, Campus de Guajara, 38205, La Laguna, Tenerife (Canarias), Spain
| | - Janet Delgado
- Departamento de Filosofía I, Facultad de Filosofía y Letras, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, 18071, Granada (Granada), Spain
| | - Elena Lorenzo
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universidad de La Laguna, Campus de Guajara, 38205, La Laguna, Tenerife (Canarias), Spain.
| | - María Elisa de Castro-Peraza
- Escuela de Enfermería Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Ctra. Gral. del Rosario, 145, 38010, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife (Canarias), Spain
| | - Naira Delgado
- Departamento de Psicología Cognitiva, Social y Organizacional, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universidad de La Laguna, Campus de Guajara, 38205, La Laguna, Tenerife (Canarias), Spain
- Instituto Universitario de Neurociencia (IUNE), Universidad de La Laguna, Campus de Guajara, 38205, La Laguna, Tenerife (Canarias), Spain
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