The implications of gender stereotypes for the dentist-patient relationship

This study assessed whether traditionally based gender stereotypes are applied to dentists. Awareness of gender-driven preconceptions can help dentists anticipate patient expectations that play a role in the clinician-patient relationship. A sample of 106 college students and fifty-four non-college students completed a one-page survey that assessed whether seven traits were viewed as more characteristic of male dentists, female dentists, or neither gender. While there was no trait that over 50 percent of respondents considered more typical of either gender, female dentists were viewed as significantly more likely to make patients feel relaxed and to take time to discuss ailments with them, perceptions found most frequently among those respondents who expressed a preference for a female dentist. Male dentists were perceived as significantly more likely to expect a patient to endure pain without complaints, more devoted to career than family, and more likely to seem to be in charge and to be attracted to the power of their profession. The findings indicate that dental students should be encouraged to consider how patients' preconceived gender-based expectations and assumptions may influence rapport and communication between patients and dentists.