SEX AND THE TEACHER LEARNER RELATIONSHIP IN MEDICINE

SEXUALITY is an important human attribute and sexual tension is a ubiquitous and complex feature of many relationships. The teacher-learner relationship in medicine is no exception. However, teacher - learner sexual behaviors and relationships can lead to difficult personal problems that complicate or destroy educational and work relationships. They also stretch and challenge ethical and legal boundaries. In thc progression from beginning medical student to senior staff member, individuals become both teachers and learners. As in other areas of professional training, the distinction between teacher and learner blurs as the learning process becomes increasingly interactive and consensual and as learners develop increasing levels of competence and expertise. Teacher - learner sexual behavior could thus involve colleagues at the same level of training, or even in different disciplines (e.g., doctors and nurses). Usually, medical school faculty are teachers and medical students are learners. Residents may be teachers or learners, depending on the circumstances. The goals of this paper are to: 1) enhance open discussion of teacher-learner sexual behaviour medical training; 2) discuss personal issues that commonly arise in this area; and 3) inform readers of relevant ethical and legal issues.