The impact of gendered language in residency program descriptions on medical students’ perceptions

Abstract

Background: Medical students may be influenced by perceived program culture and personal fit when applying to residency. Activity: Medical students were given three iterations of a generic residency program description presented with gender-neutral, feminine, or masculine skewed language and were subsequently asked to assess their perception of gender diversity and fit within each program. Results: Gendered language in program descriptions had a direct effect on all participants’ sense of gender diversity in programs. The feminine-skewed description was most favorably perceived, regardless of respondent gender. Conclusion: These findings provide a starting point from which residency programs can consider the impact of gendered language on student recruitment and gender equity.