Sex Differences in Characteristics Presumed Relevant to Professional Productivity

Differences between male and female physicians on four variables presumed relevant to professional productivity are examined: fear of success, role conflict, professional marginality, and domestic responsibilities. Productivity is assessed in terms of time devoted to professional work and number of patients seen. There were no significant differences between the sexes in marginality or role conflict. Male respondents obtained significantly higher fear of success scores than women. Women reported a significantly greater commitment to domestic duties (primarily child care) than men. No significant sex differences were found in time devoted to professional work or in number of patients seen.