Objective Predictors of Grit, Self-Control, and Conscientiousness in Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Applicants

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to identify objective predictors of grit, self-control, and conscientiousness in orthopaedic surgery residency applicants. METHODS: The following attributes were assessed in 455 applicants: grit, self-control, conscientiousness, consistency of interest, perseverance of effort, and ambition. These measures were correlated with standard, objective demographics obtained during the application process. RESULTS: Alpha Omega Alpha status, additional degrees, and number of publications did not predict any of the studied attributes. Grit increased with age (P < 0.001) but decreased with increasing board scores (P = 0.004). Former collegiate athletes demonstrated greater grit (P < 0.001), consistency of interest (P = 0.007), perseverance (P = 0.006), and self-control (P = 0.019). Female applicants demonstrated more grit (P = 0.044), consistency of interest (P = 0.003), and conscientiousness (P = 0.029) than males. Applicants with military experience had increased ambition (P = 0.033) and conscientiousness (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Overall, orthopaedics applicants possess increased grit compared with the general public, and a number of objective variables reliably predicted the studied attributes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Cross-sectional study.