.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
Empathy in midwifery education is a cornerstone for delivering culturally competent care to diverse patient populations. Therefore, a recent cross-sectional study in Türkiye evaluated empathic tendencies and xenophobic attitudes among 724 midwifery students. While the findings showed no direct correlation between empathy and xenophobia, several demographic and educational factors significantly influenced these traits.
Specifically, the study highlighted that empathy levels varied based on students' university, citizenship status, and income levels. Moreover, having intercultural friendships and prior clinical experience with foreign individuals positively impacted empathic tendencies. Consequently, real-world exposure to different cultures helps students develop a deeper connection with diverse patients.
On the other hand, students who completed specific courses on intercultural midwifery demonstrated notably lower xenophobia levels. Furthermore, factors like family type and the type of residence during their upbringing influenced these attitudes. Similarly, because xenophobic attitudes create barriers to healthcare access, health institutions must integrate intercultural competence into their core curricula.
In addition, educators should prioritize practical intercultural engagement. For example, providing clinical opportunities with foreign patients and fostering diverse social environments can bridge gaps in understanding. Although empathy and xenophobia appeared as independent variables in this study, addressing both is crucial for promoting equitable healthcare.
Surprisingly, this study found no significant association between empathic tendency and xenophobia levels. This suggests they are independent psychological constructs requiring separate educational interventions.
Taking dedicated courses on intercultural midwifery was significantly associated with lower xenophobia levels among the students surveyed in this research.
Providing care to foreign individuals during clinical practice significantly influenced students' empathic tendencies. This highlights the vital importance of diverse clinical placements in health education.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice or training. Always consult official educational standards and clinical protocols. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
1. Hacıvelioğlu D et al. Empathy and xenophobic attitudes toward migrants among midwifery students in Türkiye: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2026 Jun 16. doi: 10.1186/s12889-026-27913-0. PMID: 42304177.
2. Akyıldız D, Kılıç Ç, Çamur Z, Kuzucu B, Ceyhan F. Factors affecting midwifery students' intercultural sensitivity and xenophobia levels in Turkiye. Eur J Midwifery. 2026;10(Supplement 1):A107.
3. Çingöl N, Karakaş M, Çelebi E, Zengin S. Determining the effect of an intercultural nursing course on empathic skill and intercultural sensitivity levels: an intervention study. Nurse Educ Today. 2021;99:103171.
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
This study examines empathy and xenophobia among 724 midwifery students in Türkiye. Results indicate that empathy and xenophobia are independent of each other. However, factors like income, intercultural courses, and friendships significantly influence these attitudes, highlighting the need for cultural education.
2 months ago
Dendritic cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity in myocardial infarction. This review explores their pathological roles, circulating dynamics, novel tolerogenic interventions, and how standard cardiovascular medications modulate dendritic cells to improve post-infarction myocardial repair and patient outcomes.
Today
A premature neonate developed upper limb compartment syndrome after uterine rupture extruded the arm through a scar defect. Conservative management with continuous monitoring yielded complete functional recovery and normal limb growth at 10-year follow-up, highlighting non-operative safety in selected cases.
Today
Atherosclerosis involves extensive glycometabolic reprogramming across immune and vascular cells. This review examines how glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lactate-driven epigenetic shifts fuel plaque vulnerability, while highlighting novel therapeutic targets like PFKFB3 and LDHA.
Today
Endoscopic posterior cervical fusion combines minimally invasive decompression, joint preparation, and rigid screw-rod fixation for atlantoaxial pathologies. Early clinical findings demonstrate solid bony union, excellent symptom relief, and minimal soft-tissue morbidity without significant vascular compromise.
Yesterday
The All-India Food Processors' Association has approached the Supreme Court to oppose FSSAI's proposed per-100g benchmark for front-of-pack warning labels, advocating instead for a per-serving threshold. We explore the regulatory showdown, nutritional evidence, and implications for clinical lifestyle counseling.
Today
