The senior psychiatrist survey II: experience and psychiatric practice

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of experience on the practice, roles, status and attitudes of psychiatrists within the Ro yal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). Method: A postal survey of Fellows of the RANZCP resident in Australia or N ew Zealand was conducted. The main outcome measures were: years of psychiat ric experience; higher medical qualifications; location and type of psychia tric practice; attitudes about senior psychiatrists and mentorship; changes in work practices over the career; and the perceived benefits and drawback s of experience on psychiatric practice and case selection. Results: Of 1086 eligible subjects, 629 participated. Over 96% of responden ts, particularly the younger and less experienced, believed that senior psy chiatrists have wisdom to offer to junior colleagues, This wisdom principal ly related to mentorship/supervision. Increased 'respect and tolerance' of patients as a benefit of experience was more likely to be reported by respo ndents 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. T hose respondents reluctant to take on 'dangerous or acting-out patients' we re more experienced. The field of psychiatric practice significantly influe nced case selection. Conclusions: Senior psychiatrists have accumulated wisdom through experienc e that is sought by junior colleagues via mentorship. It is recommended tha t the RANZCP should specifically address the needs of early career and seni or psychiatrists.