NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF TOXIC QUESTIONING DURING MEDICAL INTERNSHIP

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of toxic questioning during medical internship, a crucial phase in training as it marks the transition from theoretical learning to clinical practice. This is a cross-sectional study conducted between September and December 2024, involving 84 medical students from the 9th to the 12th semester at a university center in Fortaleza, Brazil. Data were collected through an online questionnaire comprising 22 statements across five thematic axes, answered using a 5-point Likert scale. The results showed that although most students perceived questioning as an opportunity to deepen their knowledge (95.2%), a significant proportion reported negative experiences related to toxic questioning: 63.1% indicated a negative impact on self-confidence, 58.3% reported hindrance to professional development, and 89.3% believed such practices could harm the student-teacher relationship. It is concluded that, although challenging questions may enhance long-term learning, they must be conducted respectfully and pedagogically to avoid emotional harm and interpersonal disruption within the medical education environment.