Residency Leader Motivations to Engage Residents and Residency Faculty in Scholarship: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Research shows that limited time, lack of funding, difficulty identifying mentors, and lack of technical support limit resident and faculty ability to fully participate in scholarly activity. Most research to date focuses on medical student and resident attitudes toward research. This study aimed to understand the underlying attitudes of family medicine residency (FMR) leaders toward scholarship. Methods: Two focus groups of family medicine residency leaders were conducted in March 2018. The sample (N=19) was recruited through the membership directory of the Family Physicians Inquiry Network. Results: Leaders shared positive attitudes toward scholarship; however, motivation to engage residents and residency faculty in scholarship diverged. Motivations for promoting scholarly activity among participants were either extrinsic (through ACGME, program graduation, or promotion requirements) or intrinsic (through personal interest and natural drive). Conclusions: Emerging themes illustrate differences in how FMR program leaders perceive the role of scholarship in residency programs. As programs aim to increase research and scholarship, more attention must be paid to the motivating messages communicated by the program’s leadership.