Gender Disparities and Their Impact on the Professional Experiences of Female Neurosurgery Residents in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Omer M, Nguyen TL, Alhamdan AA, Machetanz K, Nistor-Gallo D, Moritz I, Ramirez TR, Kim DB, Lawson McLean AC, Maurer S, Posti JP (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 194
Article Number: 123484
DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.11.067
Abstract
Background: Despite advancements in gender equality within neurosurgery, the field continues to encounter challenges related to the under-representation of women and reports of gender-based disparities. This study examines the impact of these disparities on the experiences, professional development, and well-being of female neurosurgery residents in Germany, identifying specific challenges within the neurosurgical community. Methods: An anonymous, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among female neurosurgery residents from various German training hospitals nationwide, using a quantitative approach. Data were collected from June 2021 to January 2023. Results: A total of 63 female neurosurgery residents participated, representing about 19% of all female neurosurgery residents in Germany. Seventy percent reported experiencing incidents of discrimination during training, with 39% encountering “sometimes” emotional abuse, 20% physical abuse, and 17% “rarely” experiencing sexual harassment. Eighty-six percent did not report these incidents, primarily due to doubts about reporting effectiveness (24%) and the belief that reporting would not lead to change (24%). Discrimination significantly impacted job satisfaction (56%) and career progression (71%). Additionally, 60% reported frequent frustration, 52% experienced occasional depression, and burnout was common. Conclusions: The survey highlights gender disparities affecting female neurosurgery residents in Germany, negatively influencing job satisfaction and career advancement. Tackling gender discrimination and harassment requires a multifaceted approach, and further studies are warranted to assess these methods. The neurosurgical community must ensure a supportive environment by adopting no-tolerance policies against discrimination for all residents, paving the way for a future where professional excellence and patient care are free from gender inequalities.
Authors with CRIS profile
Involved external institutions
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
Germany (DE)
Klinikum Region Hannover
Germany (DE)
HELIOS Kliniken
Germany (DE)
Universitätsklinikum Tübingen
Germany (DE)
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Germany (DE)
Universitätsklinikum Jena
Germany (DE)
Turku University Hospital / Turun yliopistollinen keskussairaala (TYKS)
Finland (FI)
Germany (DE)
Klinikum Region Hannover
Germany (DE)
HELIOS Kliniken
Germany (DE)
Universitätsklinikum Tübingen
Germany (DE)
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Germany (DE)
Universitätsklinikum Jena
Germany (DE)
Turku University Hospital / Turun yliopistollinen keskussairaala (TYKS)
Finland (FI)
How to cite
APA:
Omer, M., Nguyen, T.L., Alhamdan, A.A., Machetanz, K., Nistor-Gallo, D., Moritz, I.,... Posti, J.P. (2025). Gender Disparities and Their Impact on the Professional Experiences of Female Neurosurgery Residents in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Survey. World Neurosurgery, 194. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2024.11.067
MLA:
Omer, Mazin, et al. "Gender Disparities and Their Impact on the Professional Experiences of Female Neurosurgery Residents in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Survey." World Neurosurgery 194 (2025).
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