Open AccessParenting and caregiving duties as career challenges among clinical microbiologists: a cross-sectional survey
Author(s) -
Katharina Last,
Vera Schwierzeck,
Christina Koch,
Sören L. Becker,
Jens Förster,
Nathalie Jazmati,
Cihan Papan
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
future microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.797
H-Index - 82
eISSN - 1746-0921
pISSN - 1746-0913
DOI - 10.2217/fmb-2021-0197
Subject(s) - cross sectional study , psychology , web survey , nursing , medicine , family medicine , business , pathology , marketing
Aim: To estimate the burden of parenting and caregiving duties among clinical microbiologists in Germany and to identify workplace-related support systems and barriers to engaging in career-relevant activities. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted. Participants were asked to answer 37 questions, of which 24 specifically addressed parenting and caregiving duties. Results: Only few workplace-related support systems are currently available, and experiences of job-related disadvantages were frequently reported (27 of 47; 57.4%). Main barriers were a lack of flexible working hours and reliable childcare. Sociocultural norms and a lack of role models were perceived as detrimental. Conclusion: More support systems and a credible culture of family friendliness are needed to prevent jeopardizing the academic potential of young parents.