The role of gender in career satisfaction for female surgeons.

Abstract

Despite working many hours under stressful conditions, surgeons report high levels of career satisfaction. However, female surgeons report lower career satisfaction and are underrepresented in some surgical fields. The goal of this analysis was to explore how gender influences career satisfaction for pediatric surgeons working in male-dominated subspecialties using a qualitative approach to inquiry. The grounded theory method of data collection and analysis was used. Forty-two surgeons from nine countries were interviewed using teleconferencing technology about how gender influences their career satisfaction using a semistructured interview guide. Transcripts were coded line by line, and codes and categories were created using an inductive approach to inquiry. All surgeons in this study described their careers as satisfying; however, a paradoxical tension emerged whereby female surgeons reported that they experienced no gender bias while simultaneously reporting clear instances of discrimination. All surgeons reported biases against women including instances of sexism, gender-based discrimination (i.e., unwillingness to hire women, encouragement to leave the profession, etc.), unequal distribution of labor for parenting/domestic work for women, and a lack of adequate accommodations and policies for pregnancy, birthing, and breastfeeding. The qualitative methodology used in this study revealed deep complexities of the experiences of female surgeons and the ways in which these experiences contribute to or detract from career satisfaction for female surgeons. Implications of our findings are discussed, and several feminist and psychological theoretical frameworks in which to understand the processes and complexities of career satisfaction for female surgeons are presented in the discussion.

Gender Differences in the Pediatric Neurosurgical Workforce: Professional Practice, Work-Life Balance, and Beyond

“…These are concerning responses given the enormous body of literature on discrimination against women in surgery. 1,[18][19][20]22,23,26,[34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42] With so much accumulating evidence documenting these inequities, we expect there to be a higher awareness among all surgeons in recognizing discrimination. Of note, our study revealed that women did have a keener awareness of racial discrimination than men, even if they did not experience it firsthand.…”

A reflection on qualitative methods activism: Advancing knowledge and expanding scientific practice.

“…In this issue, Granek et al (2024) provide an exemplar of this form of research in their study of female surgeons. She uncovers and explores the paradox of these women reporting that they did not experience gender bias, while also reporting instances in which discrimination was evident.…”