[Professional practice and theoretical orientation of women and men psychiatrists]

Differences between male and female psychiatrists in their careers, professional and clinical activities, and clinical orientations, in general and in contrasted settings for the practice of psychiatry.

Survey by mailed questionnaire to psychiatrists working in private practice or in institutions.

Male and female psychiatrists share some similar characteristics (age, many interests, etc.). However, female psychiatrists differ from male psychiatrists in numerous respects: more frequently engaged in private practice, shorter work-weeks, less diversification of clinical activities, more frequent reference to a psychological model. In women occupying hierarchic positions, these differences disappear, whilst they are maintained in private practice for those using the psychological model. The differences can be interpreted in part in terms of gender-specific socialization, but their origin could mainly arise from the existence of different systems of gender-based constraints in the management of professional and personal, or family, spheres.

Adjusting the training period and working conditions in institutions could facilitate career diversification for both male and female psychiatrists.