Empathy school: can doctors be taught to care?

NCT ID NCT03887195

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a special training program for 4th-year medical students could help them maintain or improve their empathy and emotional intelligence. Over 400 students took part in lectures, group discussions, role-plays, and exams with actors. Researchers measured changes in empathy and emotional expression before and after the training.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: doctor-patient relationship training program (lectures, Balint groups, role-plays, OSCEs)
What this could lead to: If successful, this training could help future doctors communicate better with patients and maintain empathy throughout their careers.
What could go wrong: This is a single-center study with self-reported measures, so results may not apply to all medical schools. The training is mandatory, so improvements might be due to practice effects rather than the program itself.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE EMPATHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris City, Faculty of Medicine

Paris, 75014, France

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