Are women residents of surgical specialties at a higher risk of developing imposter syndrome? (18 September 2023)

Summary

This study in The American Journal of Surgery aimed to assess the impact of gender on imposter syndrome among surgical trainees. An online national survey was distributed to surgical subspecialty residents between March and September 2022 which included demographics, validated Clance Imposter Scale and a short questionnaire evaluating depression and anxiety. The study found that Women surgical trainees were found to be more affected by imposter syndrome, particularly frequent and intense imposterism. Risk factors found were being single, having no dependents, working in obstetrics and gynaecology and being a foreign medical graduate. The authors identified a need for residency programs to develop wellness curriculum to address imposter syndrome among all surgical trainees.