Barriers to Socialization: Experiences of African American Former Faculty in Academic Medicine

• In Event: 52.045 - Instructor Perspectives and Experiences Regarding Education in the Professions

Abstract

This study was designed to gain greater understanding of the experiences of African-American former faculty members. Specifically, we sought to understand faculty members’ lived experiences through the lens of organizational socialization theory. For the purpose of this study, organizational socialization is defined as “the process by which a person learns the values, norms, and required behaviors which permit him [or her] to participate as a member of the organization” (Van Maanen, 1976, p.67). The ultimate implication of the study is to reveal the unintended consequences and constraints that result from ineffective socialization processes for African-American faculty and to understand what steps might be taken to improve the recruitment, retention, and promotion of African-Americans holding faculty appointments in academic health centers.

Authors

• Jamilah M. Hackworth, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

• Brandelyn L. Tosolt, Northern Kentucky University