Are women residents of surgical specialties at a higher risk of developing imposter syndrome?

Background: Imposter syndrome is a chronic feeling of doubt leading to a sense of incompetence, which is common among trainees. However, little is known about the effect of gender on imposter syndrome among surgical trainees.Methods: An online national survey was distributed to the surgical subspecialty residents between March and September 2022, including demographics, validated Clance Imposter Scale and a short questionnaire evaluating depression and anxiety.Results: Of the participants self identified as women (264, 69.1%) and men (118, 30.9%) (response rate 36.4%), the prevalence of imposterism was higher among women trainees (97% vs. 86%; p < 0.0001). Risk factors were being a gynecologist (156, 59%, p < 0.0001), single (157, 59.7% p = 0.007), having no dependents (233, 88.3% p = 0.001), being a foreign graduate (24, 9.1%, p = 0.024) and having feelings of anxiety (82, 31.1% p = 0.012). When using multivariate logistic regression to adjust for these factors, the prevalence of imposter syndrome remained significantly higher among women.Conclusion: Women trainees belonging to various surgical fields are affected by Imposter syndrome. Residency programs should develop wellness programs and provide mentorship to address this condition.