# Transforming Feedback into Growth: The ARISE Model
Feedback is a crucial element of both personal and professional development, especially in areas necessitating ongoing learning, like healthcare and medical education. Nevertheless, a significant number of individuals find it difficult to receive and process feedback efficiently. Alicia DiGiammarino, a specialist in health professions education innovation and research, presents the **ARISE Model**—a methodical approach aimed at assisting individuals in engaging with feedback in a constructive manner.
## **The Significance of Feedback in Medical Training**
Medical education is fundamentally based on an apprenticeship model, where seasoned clinicians mentor trainees through actual patient care experiences. This mentorship process relies heavily on regular, constructive feedback. Despite its significance, many students and professionals encounter challenges when it comes to receiving feedback.
A survey referenced by DiGiammarino underscores this problem: while **78% of medical residents** recognize that feedback improves clinical performance, merely **25% indicate they receive it regularly**. This gap implies that feedback is either not delivered effectively or goes unnoticed when it is provided.
## **Presenting the ARISE Model**
The **ARISE Model** is crafted to assist learners in processing feedback in a structured manner and turning it into actionable growth. The acronym **ARISE** represents:
### **1. Ask**
Proactively seeking feedback is the initial step towards advancement. Instead of waiting for input, individuals should take the initiative to ask mentors, peers, or supervisors for specific advice on their performance. This ensures that feedback is pertinent and aligned with the areas the learner aims to enhance.
### **2. Receive**
Receiving feedback necessitates an open mindset. Many experience emotional reactions—such as defensiveness or frustration—when faced with critiques. Acknowledging these initial responses, rather than reacting impulsively, aids individuals in building emotional resilience. Approaching feedback with **curiosity rather than defensiveness** promotes growth.
### **3. Interpret**
Misunderstanding feedback can result in unnecessary stress or misguided adjustments. Instead of reacting immediately, individuals should take time to contemplate the feedback:
– What are the main points?
– What corresponds with their self-assessment?
– What might warrant a second opinion or deeper investigation?
By thoughtfully evaluating feedback, learners can derive valuable insights without feeling overwhelmed by criticism.
### **4. Set Next Steps**
After processing feedback, the subsequent step is to **create a clear action plan**. Documenting specific next steps fosters accountability and application. Additionally, reflecting on how one navigated the feedback process itself contributes to skill refinement over time.
### **5. Express Gratitude**
Providing feedback can be as challenging as receiving it. Acknowledging and valuing constructive criticism fosters a culture of **mutual respect and ongoing learning**. Simple expressions like “I appreciate your insights” or “Thank you for dedicating time to help me improve” can strengthen professional relationships.
## **How Does ARISE Differ from Traditional Feedback Approaches?**
Conventional feedback methods often concentrate solely on the giver, leaving the recipient in a passive position. The **ARISE Model shifts the responsibility to the receiver**, equipping them with tools to engage constructively with feedback. This **interactive approach** enhances deeper learning and alleviates anxiety associated with receiving critiques.
Without a structured framework, feedback dialogues can be **one-sided, ineffective, or even disheartening**. By utilizing ARISE, individuals can transform these exchanges into significant learning experiences.
## **The Psychological Challenge of Feedback**
Research indicates that negative feedback can provoke the **amygdala hijack**, a reaction where the brain perceives a threat. This instinctual fight-or-flight response can lead to:
– **Defensiveness**
– **Avoidance**
– **Emotional turmoil**
The ARISE Model aids in counteracting these responses by promoting deliberate reflection, allowing recipients to **process feedback logically** rather than emotionally.
## **Success Stories and Real-World Applications**
One participant in DiGiammarino’s feedback workshops recounted how ARISE changed their perspective. Previously overwhelmed and demoralized after receiving harsh critique on a project, they implemented the ARISE method by:
1. **Taking a moment to acknowledge their emotions (Receive)**
2. **Reflecting on the validity of the feedback they received (Interpret)**
3. **Developing a plan for revisions (Set Next Steps)**
4. **Expressing thanks to their colleague for the insights (Express Gratitude)**
This change in mindset allowed them to **transform potentially discouraging feedback into a growth tool.**
## **Integrating ARISE into Medical Education and Beyond**
At Stanford University’s **Teaching and Mentoring Academy**, DiGiammarino and her colleagues are conducting ARISE-based workshops to **educate students and faculty on effective feedback reception**. Expanding such initiatives throughout healthcare education could result in:
– **Enhanced communication between mentors and trainees**
– **Greater eagerness to seek and utilize feedback**
– **A more positive and resilient learning atmosphere**
## **Key Takeaways**
– **Receiving feedback is a skill that needs to be cultivated.**
– **