Research Endeavors Supported by AOSA
Modern Gender Expression and Sexuality Amongst General Surgery Residents
Description:
The field of general surgery has long been characterized by a male-dominated and heteronormative culture, which has presented significant challenges for LGBTQ+ surgeons. Despite recent progress in increasing the visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in medicine, challenges remain, particularly regarding mentorship, equitable advancement opportunities, and implicit biases within the field. Representation among general surgery residents is a critical component, as the presence of LGBTQ+ role models and a supportive environment during residency can profoundly impact the career trajectory and professional identity of trainees. While demographic studies have explored typical gender expressions and race among general surgery residents, there is a significant lack of data on the representation of queer individuals in this specialty. This research aims to assess the current landscape and experiences of LGBTQ+ in all general surgery residents to identify gaps and develop strategies to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for future surgeons. All residents, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, are encourage to participate!
