Perceptions, Mental Health, and Career Perspectives of Pediatric Residents in Brazil: A Nationwide Survey

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Residency training is a fundamental stage in the education of physicians, representing the transition from medical school to independent clinical practice. Objectives: This study aims to explore the perceptions, mental health, and career perspectives of pediatric residents in Brazil through a nationwide survey. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study using an electronic questionnaire distributed to pediatric residents enrolled in programs accredited by the Brazilian Ministry of Education. We collected demographic data, perceptions of residency training and professional valuation, self-reported health, mental health, and career aspirations. Results: A total of 163 residents participated; most were female (77.9%) and the median age was 28 years. Although 82.8% reported being satisfied or very satisfied with life, one-third acknowledged experiencing traumatic events during residency. Strong family and social networks were frequently reported and appeared to buffer stress. More than half (55.3%) intended to work in large cities, and 51.5% planned careers in the public sector, while only 14.7% expressed interest in primary care. Subspecialization was a common aspiration, particularly among residents in very high Human Development Index regions, where training quality was more positively perceived. Regional disparities and migration patterns highlighted a concentration of future pediatricians in urban, high-HDI areas. Despite most residents considering the three-year program length adequate, 42% perceived it as too long. Conclusions: Pediatric residents in Brazil demonstrate resilience and high life satisfaction despite exposure to stress and trauma during training. Their career plans reveal a strong preference for subspecialization and urban practice. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing residency training quality nationwide, expanding mental health support, and implementing policies to encourage careers in primary care and underserved regions.