Transition to Psychiatric Residency: Unique Stresses; Unique Rewards

An individual\u27s decision to pursue a psychiatric residency following medical school training is shaped by many factors. Beginning residents are often ill prepared for the relative impact that the shift from medical doctor to psychiatric resident entails. This paper reviews the literature regarding demographic and psychological factors relating to recruitment, dynamic and practical issues confronting the beginning resident, and various coping styles adopted. These factors are considered in the context of an inpatient setting where the majority of residents begin their training. Much of the resident response is seen as adaptive and a number of strategies for coping are suggested