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Impact of structured mentorship on professional identity and career development among medical residents: a cross-sectional study in China
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DOI：10.3389/fmed.2026.1904776.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
BackgroundTraditional residency training is often characterized by unstructured supervision and frequent clinical rotations; which disrupt the continuity of mentor–mentee relationships and may hinder residents' professional development. This cross-sectional study examined the association of structured mentoring with professional identity and career development among medical residents.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 388 participants; including 172 current residents and 216 graduated physicians; between December 2025 and January 2026. A validated 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire was used to assess structured mentoring; training quality; and career development.ResultThis study investigated 388 early-career physicians; with 84.54% receiving fixed residency mentorship. The mentorship yielded high overall effectiveness (4.39/5) and recognition (4.70/5); excelling in clinical guidance (scores >4.5) but underperforming in research training (3.76/5). Heavy clinical workload (35.06%) and unclear guidance were dominant barriers. The fixed-mentor group showed markedly higher satisfaction (4.39 vs. 3.32; p < 0.001); with no significant differences in salary and clinical adaptation. Over 90% supported the program; and 78.87% favored two-way mentor matching as the top optimization strategy.ConclusionFixed longitudinal mentorship was associated with stronger professional identity; better psychological wellbeing; and more favorable early career development among medical residents. Future efforts should focus on strengthening research support; optimizing structured feedback mechanisms; and enhancing mentor development to maximize the effectiveness of mentoring programs.
Keywords:
career development
mentorship
professional identity
medical education and training
residency standardized training (RST)
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