International journal of medical education
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To test the hypothesis that scores on a Grit scale are positively associated with personality measures that are conducive to relationship building (Empathy, Self-Esteem, Activity, and Sociability), but inversely associated with personality measures that are detrimental to interpersonal relationships (Neuroticism-Anxiety, Aggression-Hostility, Impulsive Sensation Seeking, and Loneliness). ⋯ Research hypothesis was partially confirmed, suggesting that medical students with higher Grit scores were likely to have higher empathic orientation in patient care and greater Self-Esteem. Conversely, those with higher degrees of Grit displayed lower levels of Aggression-Hostility and Impulsive Sensation Seeking. The Implications of these findings for medical education are discussed.