A monthly Exhibition of Failure gave psychiatry residents a structured space to discuss setbacks. Two focus-group cycles identified safety, support, self-acceptance and preparation for future failure, but these are perceived experiences rather than measured mental-health or competency outcomes.
Key findings
- Residents described greater willingness to disclose vulnerability, peer connection and reduced isolation. Facilitators sharing their own failures appeared to soften hierarchy, while repeated participation helped trainees articulate strategies for future setbacks.
Why this matters globally
Shame and concealment affect high-stakes professional training worldwide. The format may support reflective practice and safety culture if confidentiality is protected and disclosures are separated from punitive assessment.
Thai researcher contribution
Four Prince of Songkla University researchers designed, facilitated and iteratively refined the intervention within Thai psychiatry training.
Limitations to consider
The small, single-department sample lacked a comparator and may be influenced by favorable reporting to facilitators. Faculty-trainee power and confidentiality are important risks, and burnout, self-compassion, patient safety and durability were not measured.