The opinions and perceptions of health workers on the concepts of "Reading and reading habit": A metaphor study

This study aimed to reveal the perceptions of healthcare professionals regarding "reading and reading habits" through metaphors and also to determine the reasons for preferring the developed metaphors. The phenomenological design was applied in the study using the qualitative method. The study group consists of healthcare professionals working within the borders of Ankara province. In this context, 500 healthcare professionals working at 112 Emergency Health Services within the borders of Ankara province were reached using the convenience sampling method, and 300 of them who agreed to participate formed the study sample. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers, and the data obtained were analyzed through content analysis to identify metaphorical perceptions and the reasons behind their choices. The data of the study were obtained through interview forms arranged for healthcare professionals, in which demographic information was included in the first section and in which they completed the statements given in the form of "reading is like…; because…" and "reading habit is like…; because…" in the second section. This interview form was created in line with the criticisms received after being subjected to expert opinion. The findings obtained regarding the research questions are as follows: In this study, the metaphorical perceptions of healthcare professionals regarding the concepts of "reading", "reading habit", "book", "library" and "reading time" were examined, and according to the findings obtained, it was observed that healthcare professionals' perceptions regarding the concept of "reading" were largely positive. Participants defined reading with metaphors such as "light", "journey", "breath" and "healing". These metaphors emphasize that healthcare professionals perceive reading as a vital, enlightening, and transformative activity that nourishes both the mind and the soul. Metaphors regarding the concept of "reading habit" focused more on the themes of continuity, need and commitment. The fact that participants expressed reading with metaphors such as "a glass of water", "brushing teeth", "daily vitamin" and "breathing" emphasizes the behavioral dimension of habits. This finding shows that the reading habit has a tendency not only to acquire information but also to find a place in the individual's life routine. The participants frequently described the concept of "book" with metaphors such as "friend," "treasure," "teacher," and "mirror." These metaphors reveal that books are not only a source of information but are also seen as emotional, cultural, and psychological guides. The concept of "bookshelf" was defined more with metaphors representing the accumulation of knowledge, order, and a sense of belonging. The participants' metaphorization of the bookshelf with expressions such as "brain," "archive," "heart," and "home" indicates that they perceive the bookshelf as a central, nurturing, and indispensable space that safeguards knowledge and provides intellectual security. The concept of "reading time" was also evaluated by the participants as a very valuable and personal time period. Metaphors such as "time for myself", "tea break", "mental rest", and "inner walk" revealed that healthcare professionals see reading time as a special time when they get away from professional intensity and experience individual and mental renewal. Healthcare professionals' tendencies towards the act of reading: 1. Acquiring Information: Healthcare workers turn to reading in order to increase their level of knowledge in professional and personal areas. 2. Personal Development: Reading is seen as a part of individuals' efforts to improve themselves and become more equipped. 3. Stress Management: Reading is used as a relaxation method in order to reduce the stress created by challenging working conditions. 4. Emotional Relaxation: Reading helps healthcare workers relax emotionally and achieve inner balance. It can be said that this study will provide data to understand the reading and reading habits of healthcare workers and pave the way for developing suggestions for developing a reading culture, providing professional support and increasing individual well-being. Keywords: Health, Healthcare worker, Reading, Reading habit, Metaphor, Perception.