DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: Professional identity is defined as “the individual’s developing and continuing construction of oneself within the context of one’s profession and the ongoing communication of this to others.” Professional identity formation (PIF) in dentistry is relatively underexplored in the Pakistani context. The unique socio-cultural and educational systems in the country present specific challenges and opportunities for developing professional identity. While PIF has been studied in other disciplines in Pakistan, empirical evidence regarding its development among young dentists remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the experiences and perceptions of early-career dentists from various institutions in South Punjab.
Methodology: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through purposive sampling using a semi-structured interview guide. Participants were licensed dentists practising in South Punjab. Interviews explored factors influencing PIF. Thematic analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework, applying inductive coding to identify themes and subthemes.
Results: Four major themes and 21 subthemes emerged. Participants described milestones crucial to PIF, while also highlighting challenges such as limited resources, delayed clinical exposure, job scarcity, heavy workloads, and lack of recognition. Key facilitators included mentorship, patient satisfaction, task accomplishment, and institutional support. Recommendations included integrating undergraduate research, interprofessional collaboration, structured mentorship, and continuous development opportunities.
Conclusion: The study identified key contextual factors affecting PIF among early-career dentists. Supporting identity formation during this phase may enhance professionalism, job satisfaction, and patient care. Institutional efforts to address barriers and promote facilitators are essential to fostering professional growth.