Science
In this episode of the medical podcast, Atypical Presentation, we explore the topic of power, and how to better balance the constant fluidity of “ours vs theirs” and the basic power dynamic changes that arise once one decides to enter into a medical career. Are we choosing to own the power we have stepped into in a way that displays empathy or in a route that accentuates the domineering persona of a crisp white coat? Patients willingly relinquish their power and put their faith and trust in a practitioner, so how can we ease this transition, and acknowledge that power changes will always exist. We discuss themes like personal power vs role power, up power and down power, and how to navigate the constant shift between these stages of being.In addition, we touch on the almost mind-reading ability of a patient to determine a physician’s character in a snap decision, as seen in Malcolm Gladwell’s book, Blink, as well as the topics of class structure and habitus as discussed by Pierre Bourdieu.Finally, we finish off the episode with quick, immediate changes that can be implemented into any part of your life to better acknowledge power dynamics and become more empathetic in the distribution of it.www.notyourtypicalpresentation.com