RESUMEN
In an attempt to understand the paucity of women in psychiatric research, a descriptive pilot survey of women psychiatry residents in three residency programs was undertaken in 1992 to investigate the factors that influenced career choice and interest in research. Only 5% of the respondents intended to pursue an academic career with an emphasis on research; 60% listed a research career as their last choice. Significant factors that affect professional training and subsequent career choice included the women's desire for a nurturing training environment, availability of mentors/role models, and personal and family considerations.
RESUMEN
Greater efforts should be made to recruit women into child psychiatry research. Women's tendencies to minimize their creativity and to avoid competition and criticism and women's underrepresentation and isolation in research and academia should be addressed. Nontraditional lateral tracks should be developed for women during phases of intense professional and personal demands. Mentorships, stimulating collegial relationships, and open forums at local and national levels to address these issues may encourage women's growth as child psychiatry researchers. In addition, changes for improving hiring, promoting, and facilitating career development for women are mandated.