How to Give Difficult Feedback

Abstract

Giving feedback is a necessary and expected part of training students and residents. Yet, even for simple problems, educators may have difficulty giving effective feedback. Lack of time, concern for upsetting the teacher/student relationship, worry that their own evaluations will be affected, or the fear of distressing the student are common reasons that educators avoid giving feedback to learners. These barriers are intensified when the stakes are high: for example, when a trainee has done something that appears unethical (e.g., untruthful charting) or out of bounds (e.g., having a romantic relationship with a patient). Preparation and having an effective feedback approach is critical to success. This chapter will provide you the tools to give effective feedback even when the stakes are high.