Professional identity among forensic medicine students: a cross-sectional study in Jiangsu Province, East China

• DOI: 10.1186/s12909-025-07387-1
• Publication Date: 2025-05-27T16:32:31Z
• Authors: Kang Wang; Xiaowen Yang; Zixin Han; Kai Li; Youjia Yu; Zhengsheng Mao; Rong Li; Yanfang Yu; Zhiwei Zhang; Yining Huang; Jingjing Ding; Haihong Chen; Feng Chen
• Keywords: Specialty

Abstract Background Exploring the impact of professional identity on academic performance students is crucial for improving teaching effectiveness and educational outcomes in this field. Forensic medicine a niche interdisciplinary discipline medical system. However, current literature development does not adequately address forensic students. Aim This study aimed to assess among students, explore factors associated with identity, determine role shaping students’ learning engagement their subsequent achievements. Methods A cross-sectional was executed from university Jiangsu Province, East China between November December 2023. Using method cluster sampling, 159 undergraduates majoring were investigated. Data collected using demographic questionnaire, scales engagement, achievement. Linear regression used identity-associated factors. Pearson correlation mediation analysis analyze relationship Results The mean score 3.85. Grade (senior: β = 0.353, P 0.004; fifth-year: 0.392, 0.001), student leader experience (β 0.157, 0.037), specialty selection (major assignment: β=-0.215, 0.014), knowledge before enrollment 0.095, 0.033), 0.245, 0.000) statistically significant influencing identity. Professional achievement positively correlated ( < 0.001). Learning played an intermediate achievement, accounting 49.445% total effect. Conclusion These findings highlight pivotal as strategic mechanism education, serving primary mediating factor. As multifaceted evolving construct, shaped by interplay personal, perception Generating awareness taking measures educators enhance across stages may be promoting quality talent training.