ABSTRACT
Sometimes the difficulty lies with the learner, sometimes with the teacher and sometimes with the learner-teacher relationship. As teachers build relationships with their learners to increase the effectiveness of their teaching, Johari window model might help to explain why some people are considered to have communication difficulties, or are labelled poor communicators, or worse still, why relationships become dysfunctional. Teachers and learners need to be sensitive about the covert content of the blind spot, the fagade and the hidden area, and respect privacy concerning information that is kept hidden for reasons of social training or custom. Trainee healthcare professionals need education in leadership skills. They should have good communication skills and integrity, and give people a sense of control. Heavy workload, a 'long-hours' culture, lack of sleep and shift working can result in poor performance, and can make existing mental and physical health problems worse.
