BREAKING BAD NEWS: PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES AND STRATEGIES FOR MEDICAL TRAINING

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the psychological aspects involved in breaking bad news and to propose effective strategies for medical trainees. The relevance of the topic is justified by the importance of minimizing the negative emotional impact on patients and their families, as well as promoting the health professional’s well-being. From a theoretical standpoint, breaking bad news requires interpersonal skills, empathy, and emotional competencies to handle this sensitive process. Methodologically, a narrative literature review was adopted, offering flexibility in integrating different studies and health documents, encompassing scientific databases such as PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar. The main findings suggest that structured protocols, such as SPIKES, can assist in developing communication skills and in reducing professional stress. It is concluded that medical training, when including content on breaking bad news, promotes comprehensive patient care and strengthens the physician-patient relationship. Furthermore, this study highlights the need to offer psychological support to professionals in training, as well as the importance of a formal curriculum that encompasses these competencies.