Lived experiences of mentors in an Asian postgraduate program: Key values and sociocultural factors

Introduction: Mentoring is an essential component of post-graduate medical training programs worldwide, with potential benefits for both mentors and mentees. While factors associated with mentorship success have been described, studies have focused on intrapersonal characteristics and are largely based in Western academic programs. Mentorship occurs in a broader environmental milieu, and in an Asian context, cultural factors such as respect for authority, hierarchy and collectivism are likely to affect mentoring relationships. We aim to explore the lived experience of mentors within an Asian postgraduate medical training program, and thus identify challenges and develop best practices for effective mentoring. Methods: 14 faculty mentors from a post-graduate paediatric residency program were interviewed between October 2021 to September 2022. Data was collected through semi-structured one-on-one interviews, with participants chosen via purposeful sampling. Qualitative analysis was done via a systematic process for phenomenological inquiry, with interviews thematically coded separately by 2 independent reviewers and checked for consistency. Results: 4 main thematic concepts were identified: “professional, but also personal”, “respect and hierarchy”, “harmony and avoidance of open conflict” and the “importance of trust and establishing a familial relationship”. Mentors also highlighted the value of structure in Asian mentoring relationships. Conclusion: Cultural factors, which are deeply rooted in social norms and values, play an important role in shaping mentoring relationships in an Asian context. Mentoring programs should be tailored to leverage on the unique cultural norms and values of the region in order to promote career growth and personal development of trainees and mentors. Keywords: Medical Education, Graduate Medical Education, Professional Development