GENDER MICROAGGRESSIONS: PREVALENCE AND IMPACT ON FEMALE HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: Gendered microaggressions, subtle but pervasive forms of discrimination, impede the professional growth of female healthcare professionals, especially in male-dominated environments. These behaviours undermine gender inclusivity, contribute to psychological distress, and hinder the potential for innovation and sustainable development in healthcare. While well documented in other sectors, research exploring their impact in Nigeria's healthcare system is limited.

Aim of Study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of gendered microaggressions among female healthcare professionals in Nigeria, examine their perceptions, and analyse the relationship between microaggressions, burnout, and job satisfaction.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study recruited 111 female healthcare professionals from hospitals in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. The Sexist Microaggression Experience Stress Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and a job satisfaction measure were used. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency) summarized the data, while ANOVA, Spearman rank correlation, and multiple regression analysed relationships with an alpha level of 0.05.

Results: The study found a high prevalence of gendered microaggressions (mean score 28.02±4.72), high burnout levels (mean score 19.61±8.34) and reduced job satisfaction (mean score 2.64±1.06). Spearman’s correlation revealed that gendered microaggressions were positively correlated with burnout (rho=0.420, p<0.001) and negatively correlated with job satisfaction (rho= 0.247, p=0.009). ANOVA identified significant differences in gendered microaggressions across job roles (p=0.003) although no significant differences were observed across ethnicities (p=0.305).

Conclusion: Gendered microaggressions are a major contributor to burnout and job dissatisfaction among female healthcare professionals, undermining their well-being and professional growth. To promote innovation and sustainable development within the healthcare sector, it is essential to address these gendered barriers.