Gendered workplace experiences and self-perceptions, including impostor syndrome, among anesthesia and intensive care physicians: a national cross-sectional survey

Position du problème et objectif(s) de l’étude

In recent years, gender inequalities among physicians have been increasingly documented, particularly regarding recognition, access to leadership or academic positions, perceived consideration, and self-confidence — including the evaluation of impostor syndrome (IS). These disparities are well established in anesthesia and intensive care (AIC). This study aimed to explore self-perceived competence by gender among AIC physicians in France, including IS assessment, and to evaluate potential gender-based differences in perceptions and experiences.

Matériel et méthodes

We conducted a national, cross-sectional observational study. Physicians practicing in a French healthcare facility and in at least their third year of residency were eligible. An anonymous 50-item questionnaire was developed, covering five domains: demographics, workplace perceptions, IS evaluation, perceived gender roles, and gender-based comparisons. Responses were collected using five-point Likert scales or a three-option format (male, female, undifferentiated). IS was assessed using the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale. The survey was distributed via Google Forms from February to May 2025 through social media, email, and professional societies (AJAR, SFAR). Categorical variables were reported as frequencies and percentages; associations were tested using Chi-square or Mann-Whitney tests; Likert items were treated as continuous variables, and correlations were assessed using Pearson’s coefficient.

Résultats & Discussion

In this preliminary analysis, 940 responses were analyzed. Most respondents were hospital practitioners (48.3%) or residents (28.5%), with a female majority (62.2%) and a mean age of 36 ± 14 years. The main practice setting was university hospitals (80.5%), and anesthesia was the most common primary activity (47.8%). No significant gender differences were found in self-confidence, stress levels, legitimacy, perceptions of over- or underestimation by colleagues, the need to work harder, or having declined a job due to self-doubt. The mean IS score was 64.4±18.2, above the diagnostic threshold. IS prevalence was similar in men and women (62.2% vs. 60.5%, p=0.644), but severity differed, with more men scoring in the highest range (p=0.041). IS scores were inversely correlated with age (r=-0.21[-0.27;-0.14], p<0.001). Significant differences emerged regarding perceived gender roles: both men and women identified women as less respected, less competent, and less likely to hold leadership positions (p<0.001). There was no difference in confidence in colleagues’ decisions. Men tended to seek advice from undifferentiated peers, while women more often turned to other women (p=0.003). Women more frequently reported being over-explained topics they already understood and felt that being a woman negatively impacted their ability to persuade colleagues (p<0.001). Compared to male peers, women more often felt their decisions were less valued, their legitimacy questioned, and their opinions less considered (p<0.001). Tendencies varied according to age, professional status, type of institution, and medical activity.

Conclusion

These findings provides a large and robust overview and suggest the persistence of gender-related perceptions in AIC. Raising awareness and encouraging reflective practices may help foster a more inclusive professional environment and support equitable recognition of all physicians, regardless of gender.

Auteurs

Domitille RENARD (1) , Enora ATCHADE (2), Camille MOLKHOU (1), Lucien MONOD (1), Jean-Marie RENARD (3), Vincent COMPERE (1), Thomas CLAVIER (1), Emilie OCCHIALI (1) - (1)Department Of Anesthesiology And Critical Care, Chu Rouen, F-76000 Rouen, France, Rouen, France, (2)Dmu Parabol, Bichat-Claude Bernard Hospital, Ap-Hp, 75018 Paris, France, Paris, France, (3)Ea2694 University Lille 2-France, Lille, France

Orateur(s)

Domitille RENARD (Rouen)