Personality analysis for next generation of doctors

'Introvert feelers', who need time for processing, prefer structured activities and resist time-pressured tasks - that's the profile of the typical first year medical student at the University of Dundee, according to a recent report by Nick Halpin, of the Counselling Service.

Nick's report documents the results of a study of 740 first-year students who have passed through the Medical School over the last five years. The study was carried out using the Insights Discovery Preference Evaluator, an instrument derived from Jungian typology. Created by local company Insights Learning & Development Ltd, the system is based on the analytical typology of CG Jung and generates a detailed report that includes comments on personal differences, learning styles and personal development.

Individual profiles were generated for all 740 students aged between 18 and 19 of whom 58% (429) were female. No significant differences were found between the male and female students and the findings suggested that the majority were ‘introverted, caring, conscientious and conformist’. The smallest group – 9% - were ‘extrovert thinkers’, who focus on action rather than theory.

Nick says, "I firmly believe that Insights has a remarkable future as an educational tool in universities and it has a particular relevance to the medical curriculum. We wish our students to develop their potential to be well-qualified doctors who are confident of their humanity and of their ability to adapt with grace to an ever-changing world. We know that personal development is key to achieving that goal and I believe that Insights can assist in this process."