Exploration of burnout and imposter phenomenon among dermatology resident doctors in the UK.

BACKGROUNDDermatology training is highly competitive, yet UK-specific data on trainee wellbeing are limited. Burnout describes emotional exhaustion and reduced professional fulfilment due to chronic stress, while imposter phenomenon (IP) reflects persistent self-doubt despite objective competence.

OBJECTIVESTo examine the prevalence and drivers of burnout and IP among UK dermatology registrars.

METHODSA national questionnaire survey was distributed to UK dermatology trainees in May 2025. Burnout was assessed using the Emotional Exhaustion (EE) subscale of the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and IP using validated scales. Free-text responses explored drivers of burnout and IP and protective factors, and were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTSEighty-four trainees responded [74% women (n = 62/84)]. Significant burnout (EE >13) was identified in 44% (n = 37/84). Trainees with -burnout reported significantly higher IP scores than those without (mean 26 vs. 22; P = 0.005). Burnout was strongly associated with poor work-life integration (P < 0.001) and thoughts of leaving the specialty [49% (n = 41/84) vs. 17% (n = 14/84); P = 0.001]. There were no significant differences between burnout groups by age, sex or ethnicity. Qualitative analysis identified five themes: unattainable targets (administrative workload and Specialty Certificate Examination pressure), disrupted transitions, feelings of abandonment due to limited supervision, competing priorities and professional identity violation.

CONCLUSIONSThese novel UK data demonstrate that burnout and IP are common and closely related among dermatology registrars. Prevalence was comparable to that reported in international literature. Drivers appear to be predominantly structural rather than demographic, particularly administrative burden, high-stakes assessment and inconsistent access to support. System-level interventions, including protected self-development time and increased examination sittings, may help support the workforce. These findings provide an important baseline for future policy development and research into trainee wellbeing in UK dermatology.

Abstract from PubMed