An Analysis of Changing Patterns of American Medical Student Career Selection of Psychiatry

Abstract

Over the past ten years there has been a dramatic decrease in the number of students planning careers in psychiatry. The most widely held hypothesis is that encouraging medical students to pursue primary care careers has drawn them away from psychiatry. A survey questionnaire composed of 79 questions was distributed anonymously to the 995 senior medical students in the eight medical schools in Northern Illinois. Multiple correlations and a discriminate analysis were performed to identify those selecting psychiatric careers and those entering other specialties. The study confirms the decline of medical student interest in psychiatry; it offers data in support of the distinction between psychiatry-oriented medical students and their peers. The study distinguishes differing career patterns for men and women medical students. It does not provide support for the concept of primary care, especially family practice, drawing students away from psychiatry.