Beyond the image: The hidden problem of maladaptive mindsets in radiology residency and how to fix it

Burnout, anxiety, and imposter syndrome are prevalent in radiology residency, where high clinical demands and a culture of perfectionism can reinforce maladaptive cognitive patterns. This study examines the prevalence of maladaptive and growth mindsets among residents and evaluates the impact of a brief educational intervention.

A 45-min didactic lecture on mindset theory was delivered to radiology trainees at five institutions. The lecture introduced three maladaptive mindsets - "Cog in the Wheel," "Survival," and "Perfectionist" - and one growth mindset, "Growth." An anonymous post-lecture survey assessed mindset prevalence and the perceived importance of growth mindset development. Pearson's chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

Among 48 resident responses, 65 % identified with the "Perfectionist", 62 % with "Survival," and 56 % with "Cog in the Wheel" mindset. Only 6 % identified exclusively with the "Growth" mindset, while 35 % endorsed both growth and maladaptive mindsets. Only 8 % of respondents reported high familiarity with mindset theory pre-lecture. Ninety-percent of respondents rated growth mindset development as "very" or "extremely important" (p < 0.001) post-lecture, compared to 39 % retrospective rating pre-lecture. Additionally, 88 % found the session very helpful, and 75 % expressed high interest in further mindset training.

Maladaptive mindsets are prevalent among radiology residents, contributing to stress and burnout. A brief educational intervention significantly increased awareness and motivation to adopt a growth mindset. These findings underscore the need for structured mindset training, faculty modeling of growth-oriented behaviors, and institutional support to foster resilience and professional fulfillment. Future research should explore the long-term impact of mindset interventions.