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

BACKGROUND: Mentoring 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. PURPOSE: This study explored gender-specific differences in residents’ mentoring experiences. METHODS: The 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. RESULTS: Residents 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. CONCLUSIONS: Female 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.