A Cross-Sectional Study to Determine the Prevalence of Workplace Gender Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Faced by Female Trainee Doctors

Introduction: This study investigates the prevalence and nature of workplace gender discrimination and sexual harassment among female professionals in India, with a focus on healthcare and academic institutions. Objectives: The primary outcome measure was the prevalence and nature of workplace sexual harassment experienced by a female medical trainee. Additional outcome measures included the perceived reason for harassment, reason for not raising complaints and other related issues. Material and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study which employed an anonymous, voluntary-response online survey to explore experiences of sexual harassment of female trainee doctors. Results: Using an online questionnaire, 100 participants shared their experiences, revealing high rates of gender-based discrimination (75%) and sexual harassment (52.5%). Among the various forms of harassment reported, verbal assault was the most common (71%), followed by uncomfortable stares (68%), and physical harassment (18.8%), including touching and groping. Faculty members were identified as the primary perpetrators (69%), highlighting the impact of power dynamics on harassment incidences. Additionally, participants perceived that regressive ideas about women (75%) and abuse of authoritative power (62%) were major contributing factors to these behaviors. The study reveals significant barriers to reporting harassment, with only 9.1% of participants lodging complaints due to fears of higher authority and workplace visibility. This aligns with broader South Asian research indicating that sociocultural and workplace hierarchies often deter victims from speaking out. The findings underscore the detrimental effects of ongoing harassment, with 71.9% of participants experiencing continuous harassment, which can lead to mental health challenges such as anxiety and burnout, adversely impacting productivity and job satisfaction. Conclusion: This study highlights the urgent need for policy reforms in Indian workplaces, particularly in healthcare and academia, to establish zero-tolerance harassment policies, enforce anti-harassment frameworks, and empower victims to report incidents safely. Addressing these issues could foster a safer, more inclusive work environment, supporting both professional growth and mental well-being.