Coping With Microaggressions and Gaslighting in the Surgical Learning Environment

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Medical Education
• Psychosocial Health

Background:

• Plastic surgery training offers rewards but involves significant physical and psychosocial stressors.
• While physical demands are addressed, psychosocial and interpersonal challenges for plastic surgeons and trainees receive less attention.
• Microaggressions (unintentional bias) and gaslighting (psychological manipulation) are key stressors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explain the influence of microaggressions and gaslighting on plastic surgery providers.
• To provide a framework for recognizing and professionally addressing these issues within plastic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of reported experiences.
• Literature review on workplace bias and manipulation in surgical training.
• Development of a conceptual framework for intervention.

Main Results:

• Microaggressions and gaslighting negatively impact the well-being and professional development of plastic surgeons and trainees.
• Lack of awareness and established protocols exacerbates the effects of these stressors.
• A structured approach is needed for effective identification and management.

Conclusions:

• Addressing microaggressions and gaslighting is crucial for improving the psychosocial environment in plastic surgery.
• Implementing the proposed framework can help mitigate the negative effects of these stressors.
• Fostering a supportive and inclusive training environment is essential for the future of plastic surgery.