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No Room to "Lean In": A Qualitative Study on Gendered Barriers to Promotion and Leadership
Elizabeth H Ellinas1, Kristina Kaljo2, Teresa N Patitucci3
11 Department of Anesthesiology, Center for the Advancement of Women in Science and Medicine (AWSM), Medical College of Wisconsin , Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Journal of Women'S Health (2002)
|November 28, 2018
Summary
Gender disparities persist in academic medicine leadership. Female faculty face role overload and need for self-promotion, while male faculty cite external leader-related barriers. Targeted resources can address these issues.
Area of Science:
- Academic Medicine
- Medical Education
- Gender Studies
Background:
- The gender gap in professorship and leadership roles in academic medicine is a persistent issue.
- The underlying reasons for these disparities remain unclear, hindering effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific barriers and concerns contributing to the gender gap in academic medicine leadership.
- To differentiate the challenges faced by male and female faculty regarding career advancement and leadership roles.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 491 open-ended text responses from a 2013 faculty engagement survey.
- Application of grounded theory and consensual qualitative analysis techniques.
- Comparison of demographic data using chi-square analysis.
Main Results:
- Faculty responses were categorized into 'No Obstacles,' 'Barriers to Success,' and 'Concerns Regarding Processes.'
- Female faculty, particularly in clinical roles, reported significant role overload and the need for self-promotion.
- Male faculty identified barriers related to negative perceptions of leadership and external impediments.
Conclusions:
- While 'No Obstacles' and 'Process Concerns' were gender-neutral, 'Barriers to Success' showed significant gender disparities.
- Women's barriers were predominantly internal (overload), while men's were external (leadership impediments).
- Resources are needed to mitigate female faculty's role overload and encourage all faculty in leadership pursuits.