Mechanisms of Change: Qualitative Analysis of a Group Peer Mentoring Intervention for Academic Medicine Research Faculty

Introduction: Despite the recognized need for effective mentoring for faculty in academic medicine, mechanisms driving successful mentoring interventions remain underexplored. Two consecutive cohorts of 20 academic medicine mid-career research faculty from 27 US medical schools participated in a randomized controlled trial of the yearlong C-Change Mentoring (2) encouraging self-reflection through introspective exercises and structured storytelling; (3) forming empathic relationships, telling life stories, and discussing experiences of difference and power; and (4) envisioning a successful future through aligning personal values and professional goals, using structured stepwise short and long-term career planning. The authors illustrate the interactions of these functions and activities. Discussion: This successful mentoring experiment of learning and career development in a changed culture provides a blueprint for broader culture change in academic medicine that must honor values, encourage reflective practice, team building, and relational leadership in career development.