Many feel surgeons are a unique breed, in both personality and learning style. Two researchers from the U.K. sought to explore this stereotype, asking, "Are surgeons born or made?" in a study published by the Journal of Surgical Education.
The duo conducted two small cross-sectional surveys of surgical trainees and medical students who indicated they would pursue a surgical career. The first survey tested personality and the second tested learning style. Fifty-three medical students and 37 surgical trainees participated. The idea was if the trainees and the medical students exhibited similar personality traits and learning styles, perhaps there is something inherent that attracts certain people to a career in surgery — not something that can be picked up in school.
The researchers found no significant difference in learning styles between the two groups and no difference in personality for all but one trait — neuroticism. The medical students showed significantly more signs of neuroticism than the trainees, according to the report. This suggests nature may play a significant role in developing those geared toward surgical careers.
"These findings facilitate future research into potential ways of improving both the training and selection of students and junior trainees onto residency programs," the authors conclude.
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