Association of Women Surgeons

AWS Coaching Problem to Address Burnout in Women Surgery Residents

AWS will implement a positive psychology coaching intervention for resident members and faculty with an emphasis on issues specific to women surgeons. AWS aims to connect residents and faculty in a meaningful way to support their emotional and professional development and address issues contributing to burnout. The coaching program will create a safe environment for reflection and goal identification, as well as a path to attain them. In addition, AWS proposes that providing the opportunity to examine their achievements, strengths, purpose, and unique contributions will help build confidence and engagement, and increase well-being. The coaches will be AWS faculty members who receive training in positive psychology coaching. AWS predict that this training will also improve their well-being and professional fulfillment. Since coaching will take place remotely outside their home institutions, residents can feel safe to share and reflect honestly on their experiences with their coaches.