Abstract

Evolution of Defense Mechanisms Through the Reflective Portfolio: Building Resilience in Nursing Students

Author(s): Olivier Morenon*

This exploratory qualitative study investigates the impact of reflective learning portfolio writing on the activation and evolution of defense mechanisms among nursing students, with the aim of developing resilience skills. Conducted with six students from a specialized higher education institution in Western Switzerland, the analysis is based on semi-structured interviews to explore how reflective writing initially stimulates the use of basic defense mechanisms, before encouraging a transition to more mature and adaptive mechanisms. These ones are crucial to the metallization process, thereby facilitating healthier emotional management and contributing to the strengthening of resilience. The results highlight the critical role of reflective writing as a pedagogical tool for the development of key resilience skills, including self-assessment, metacognition and the ability to link theory and practice. The study underscores the importance of integrating reflective writing into nursing education programs, to prepare students to face professional challenges with adaptability and robustness. This research contributes to a better understanding of the interplay between reflective writing and resilience in nursing students, offering valuable directions for the development of pedagogical strategies aimed at enhancing resilience.