Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Content Representation on the Psychiatry Resident In-Training Examination, 2009–2013

Abstract

This article explores the extent to which lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) content is included in the Psychiatry Residency in Training Exam (PRITE®) questions and how these rates compare with other specialized topics. Five PRITE in-training examinations from 2009–2013 were reviewed for questions relating to LGBT issues, trauma and abuse, pregnancy and postpartum, and religion and culture. Totals for each category were tabulated and compared with each other and to the total number of questions (300 questions for each year analyzed). The LGBT category had the fewest number of questions of the categories examined. Out of a total of 1,500 questions over five years, three question stems or answer choices had LGBT content. This is an average of less than one item per year (out of 300 questions). Given the increased national attention devoted to improving health care disparities for sexual minorities, increased coverage of this topic in the residency education examination in psychiatry appears to be warranted.

KEYWORDS:

• LGBT
• PRITE
• content analysis
• sexual minorities
• Residency training