Mirror Neurons Linkages to Design Communication Skills Training Models for Doctors

Abstract

Mirror neurons were initially discovered in the early 1990s. Multiple specialized ‘mirror neuron systems’ have been shown in studies to comprehend the intents, actions, feelings, and behavior of others through direct imitation and action understanding, without the need for any cognitive processing. Research has demonstrated how Mirror neurons contribute to the imitation-based learning of new skills. This ability to ‘observe and imitate’ actions forms the foundation of the importance of ‘supervised observation and practice’ in the development of communication skills. Effective use of Mirror neuron philosophy has been demonstrated in surgical skill training for psychomotor training. This chapter provides a framework for communication training based on previously established theories to suggest how the Mirror mechanism may be actually applied in teaching doctors to communicate effectively. The five "Mirroring" strategies described here may be useful to improve doctor-patient communication. The computational model based on conversational AI (Artificial Intelligence) has been proposed for enhancing AI-based Communication skills training for doctors. These tools can translate spoken or written language in real time, making communication more effective. The authors believe that better communication skills in doctors will definitely improve overall patient and physician satisfaction, ensure adherence to therapy, and enhance patient trust in the practitioner.