Impression management theory is a sociological phenomenon that explains the self-reported tendency of medical students to present themselves emotionally unaffected by patient interactions. This phenomenon is influenced by factors such as the hidden curriculum in medical education, which emphasizes maintaining emotional distance and professionalism. Medical students may feel the need to present themselves as emotionally unaffected to fit into this hierarchical structure and gain approval from their superiors.
However, impression management does not guarantee that all medical students are emotionally unaffected by patient interactions. Emotions are natural and natural in human experiences, but due to social and professional expectations, they may feel compelled to suppress or hide them. In conclusion, impression management theory is the most plausible explanation for the self-reported tendency of medical students to present themselves emotionally unaffected by patient interactions. However, it is crucial to recognize that these tendencies do not reflect the true emotional experiences of all medical students.