Physicians' Values as Motivators for Continuing Professional Development: A Cross-Sectional Study

Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions (12/20/24) Gavarkovs, Adam G; McCauley, William

Physicians who see continuing professional development (CPD) as consistent with their intrinsic values are more motivated toward CPD, as predicted by the Self-Determination Theory, according to new research. The study, which was conducted in Canada, asked practicing physicians about their motivations for engaging in CPD, the importance they place on several intrinsic and extrinsic values, and the extent to which engaging in CPD is aligned with those values. Based on 122 survey responses, the research team found a positive association between seeing CPD activities as helping to benefit others and intrinsic regulation, identified regulation, and introjected regulation. There was also a positive association between seeing CPD activities as contributing to personal growth and identified regulation. To support health professionals' motivation, CPD providers should consider "highlighting connections between CPD activities and intrinsic values in promotional materials," the researchers report.

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