UCSF

Underrepresented minorities (URM) often leave their residency programs with greater negative experiences than non-URM co-residents. It is critical for program leaders to understand the experiences of all their residents during the 2-3 year residency programs. This mixed-method study aims to assess whether race in an orthodontic academic setting leads to increased stereotype threat and to understand URM orthodontic dental residents' experiences and coping mechanisms. A total of 257 orthodontic residents completed a stereotype vulnerability scale, modified for dental residents, to assess the level of threat they face. The results revealed that 67.9% of URM residents were at high risk, in contrast to the 16.9% of non-URM residents who were at high risk. Additionally, ten high-threat and ten low-threat residents were interviewed using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. These interviews highlighted contrasts in race-based experiences based on threat levels, how stereotype threat can manifest (didactically, clinically, and socially), and the consequences and coping mechanisms of residents. Furthermore, five program leaders were interviewed to understand the current measures taken to create inclusive workplaces, how they perceive the experiences of their residents, and the effectiveness of the support systems implemented by program directors and chairs.