A Pilot Study Exploring Gender Differences in Residents’ Strategies for Establishing Mentoring Relationships

Abstract

BackgroundMentoring is important throughout a physician's career and has been noted to be particularly important during residency training. Other studies suggest that women may experience difficulty in finding mentors.PurposeThis study explored gender-specific differences in residents’ mentoring experiences.MethodsThe authors conducted two focus groups at the University of Pittsburgh in July, 2004. One group was composed of 12 female residents; the other was composed of nine male residents. Discussions were audiotaped and transcribed. Two investigators coded the transcripts and identified emerging themes.ResultsResidents of both genders cited multiple barriers to mentoring. Men′s strategies for finding mentors were more numerous than women′s and included identifying mentors through research, similar interests, friendship, and networking. Female strategies were limited and included identifying mentors through “word of mouth” and work experiences. Women described more passive approaches for finding a mentor than men.ConclusionsFemale residents may lack strategies and initiatives for finding mentors. Residency programs should create opportunities for residents to develop mentoring relationships, with special attention paid to gender differences.

Impact of Mentoring on Academic Career Success for Women in Medicine: A Systematic Review

“…Twenty-one studies reported findings on the barriers to successful mentoring (see Supplemental Digital Appendix 4 at http://links.lww.com/ACADMED/B217). 79–81,83,85,86,88–91,93–103 On the individual level, female mentees reported lacking time to find a mentor and maintain a mentoring relationship 80,93,99,101 and saw potential mentors as being overextended. 86,91,93…”

“…Three studies reported female mentees’ own insecurities as barriers, including their reluctance to initiate contact or share career decisions with mentors with influence over their career path. 91,93,101…”

Faculty perception and readiness to engage in initiatives towards excellence

“…However in the same study, they noted gender differences in strategies in establishing mentor-mentee relationships. Female students were more passive compared to their male counterparts (McNamara et al, 2008). Gender issues were important as it was demonstrated above.…”

“…Studies have shown that mentored students spent more time on academic activities, thus ensuring effective training process (Rose et al, 2005). Educational processes created opportunities for students to develop mentoring relationships with faculty members (McNamara et al, 2008). However in the same study, they noted gender differences in strategies in establishing mentor-mentee relationships.…”

The Role of Gender in Careers in Medicine: a Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of Qualitative Literature

“…54,70,71 Studies of mentoring reflect the influence of gender. 72,73 A mosaic approach to multiple mentors across domains of life and during a career were important for women's professional success. 70,74 Professional development programs that aimed to improve leadership skills and create communities of professional support were shown to improve women's success.…”