Workplace Environment Microaggressions in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery: An International Survey

Abstract

ObjectiveTo survey members of the otolaryngology community about their personal and observed experiences of being treated differently because of one's physical attributes, cultural norms, or preferences in the workplace.Study DesignCross‐sectional survey.SettingInternational Electronic Survey.MethodsWe invited members of the international otolaryngology community including 3 European or American otorhinolaryngological Societies to complete a survey about personal/observed experience of differential treatment in the workplace related to age, biological sex; disability, gender identity, language proficiency, military experience, citizenship, ethnicity/race, political belief, and sexual orientation. Results were analyzed according to participant ethnicity/race (white vs non‐white) and gender (male vs female)ResultsFour hundred seven participants completed the evaluations: 301 white (74%) and 106 non‐white (26%) participants. Non‐white participants reported significantly more experiences of differential treatment (microaggressions) than white participants (p < .05). Non‐white participants more frequently felt that they needed to work harder for the same opportunities as their peers and were more likely to consider leaving a position because of an unsupportive environment. In general, females reported more frequent experiences with differential treatment related to sexual orientation, biological sex, and gender identity than males.ConclusionWe recognized reports of differential treatment as a proxy for microaggressions. Non‐white members of the otolaryngology community self‐report experiencing or observing more microaggressions than white members in the workplace. Acknowledging the existence and impact of microaggressions in the field of Otolaryngology is the first step towards cultivating an inclusive, diverse workforce where all members feel supported, validated, and welcomed.

Microaggressions in European versus American Workplace Environments of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery

“…Recently, our group published the results of a bi‐national study highlighting the prevalence of microaggressions related to ethnicity in the Western otolaryngology head and neck surgery community 14 . The phenomenon is being actively explored in the US literature; however, it has seldom been investigated in Europe.…”

“…Irrespective of geography, ethnicity, and gender microaggressions significantly impact the work and well‐being of the practitioner and may be tied to increased physician burnout and resignation 23 . Combating microaggressions is an important issue in Western societies like Europe and the United States in which individuals of different nationalities, ethnicities, orientations, beliefs, and cultures live and work together 14 . Future efforts should focus on the intersection of ethnicity and gender, as women of color may be some of the most vulnerable individuals in our profession.…”

“… 23 Combating microaggressions is an important issue in Western societies like Europe and the United States in which individuals of different nationalities, ethnicities, orientations, beliefs, and cultures live and work together. 14 Future efforts should focus on the intersection of ethnicity and gender, as women of color may be some of the most vulnerable individuals in our profession.…”

“…As suggested in our previous work, responders may have only considered comments they personally interpreted as negative as “differential treatment,” whereas microaggressions do not necessarily need to be perceived as negative by an individual to cause harm. 14 Part of our commentary is to appreciate the various lenses through which individuals may view these types of questions.…”