Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of experience on the practice, roles, status and attitudes of psychiatrists within the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP).
Method: A postal survey of Fellows of the RANZCP resident in Australia or New Zealand was conducted. The main outcome measures were: years of psychiatric experience; higher medical qualifications; location and type of psychiatric practice; attitudes about senior psychiatrists and mentorship; changes in work practices over the career; and the perceived benefits and drawbacks of experience on psychiatric practice and case selection.
Results: Of 1086 eligible subjects, 629 participated. Over 96% of respondents, particularly the younger and less experienced, believed that senior psychiatrists have wisdom to offer to junior colleagues. This wisdom principally related to mentorship/supervision. Increased 'respect and tolerance' of patients as a benefit of experience was more likely to be reported by respondents who were more experienced. Respondents more confident about treating younger patients and treating functional psychoses were more likely to be less experienced, as were those reluctant to take on psychotherapy cases. Those respondents reluctant to take on 'dangerous or acting-out patients' were more experienced. The field of psychiatric practice significantly influenced case selection.
Conclusions: Senior psychiatrists have accumulated wisdom through experience that is sought by junior colleagues via mentorship. It is recommended that the RANZCP should specifically address the needs of early career and senior psychiatrists.