Intrinsic Gratitude’s Impact on Professional Trajectory: A Qualitative Interview Study With Palliative Care Team Members

Objectives: Palliative care is emotionally demanding, yet extrinsic gratitude can improve job satisfaction. While intrinsic gratitude is effective in preventing burnout, the focus of existing research is mainly on extrinsic gratitude received by clinicians. This study aims to examine the role of intrinsic gratitude in clinicians within the emotionally demanding field of palliative care, assessing its impact on professional development and potential for broader community benefit. Methods: Utilizing purposive sampling, we recruited a diverse group of palliative care professionals from 10 hospitals, focusing on full-time staff with at least two years of experience in palliative care. Of the 23 clinicians, 12 (five physicians, six nurses, and one social worker) were recruited because they spontaneously expressed profound gratitude toward others. Results: Twelve of twenty-three clinicians maintained a positive outlook despite the inherent challenges of their field. Intrinsic gratitude, especially toward team members like nurses, emerged as a pivotal support mechanism. Through its transformative dimensions of empathic engagement, self-elevation, and humility, this gratitude strengthened their professional resilience and trajectory and had a ripple effect on their personal lives, influencing familial relationships and broader societal interactions. Conclusions: This is the first research focusing on clinicians’ spontaneous expressions of gratitude. This study provides new insights into understanding the clinicians’ intrinsic gratitude, its impact on their professional trajectory, and harnessing its potential benefits for broader community outreach. Through a reflective process incorporating gratitude, clinicians may be empowered to develop their self-coping mechanisms and nurture inner resilience while caring.