Unconscious Gender Bias Against Women Physicians

Abstract

Unconscious bias refers to implicit associations or attitudes we hold that operate beyond our conscious awareness. It can significantly influence our behavior and decision-making. Studies suggest that the lack of advancement into prestigious and leadership positions by women and gender pay gaps are due to the unconscious gender bias against women. In traditionally male-dominant fields, such as medicine, women are evaluated less favorably than their male colleagues. Women physicians are exposed to negative unconscious bias in numerous settings from daily interactions with patients, physician colleagues and co-medical workers to evaluations, access to educational opportunities and promotions. The unconscious bias against women negatively affects not only social interactions and external evaluations of women, but also their performance. To reduce the unconscious bias against women, training for staff and stakeholders, including women themselves, and the construction multi-faceted systematic interventions are needed.