Associations Between DISC Assessment and Performance in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents

Objective: To determine if the DISC (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness/Submission, and Conscientious/ Compliance) assessment correlates with obstetrics and gynecology resident performance.

Study Design: A total of 46 residents completed the DISC assessment. Residents were classified as "administrators" based on service to the program or as "concerning" if they were on remediation. Residents were categorized by negative comments by nurses or other residents and severe adverse event (SAE)/patient complaints. A quantitative assessment of compliance was used to assess residents. In-service examination scores and faculty evaluations of residents were analyzed. A p value of < 0.05 was taken as significant.

Results: Residents with SAE/patient complaints had higher Influence (p = 0.021) and lower Conscientious/Compliance scores (p = 0.029). Administrator-residents demonstrated a positive correlation with Dominance (r = 0.336, p = 0.042). In-service examination scores positively correlated with Dominance and negatively with Steadiness/Submission. There was a negative correlation between resident compliance scores (based on residency requirements) and Steadiness/Submission (r = -0.495, p = 0.043).

Conclusion: Residents who are successful in executing administrative duties, provide safe patient care, or obtain high scores on examinations may have a DISC profile that is high in Dominance and Conscientious/Compliance but lower in Steadiness/Submission and Influence. Implementation of programs to promote emotional intelligence may allow for increased compassionate and safe patient care.