Managing intergenerational differences in academic anesthesiology.
OBJECTIVE
Common definitions for workplace generations are the silent generation (born 1925-1945), the baby boomer generation (1946-1962), generation X (1963-1981), and generation Y (1982-2000). Distinct motivational and value perceptions stereotype generations. This review defines the characteristics of workplace generations today and provides insight into how differences influence the workplace environment.


RESULTS
Senior faculty members are mostly boomers, whereas residents and junior faculty members tend to belong to generation X. Medical students and incoming interns are from generation Y. When compared with boomers, generation X is more savvy with technology, more independent, less loyal to the institution, and seeks balance between work and lifestyle. The 80-h resident working week restriction has reinforced differences between older and younger physicians. Generation Y exhibits traits that are similar to those of generation X. Their increased interest in anesthesiology may reflect, in part, their assumption that it affords better control of lifestyle.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding, improved communication strategies, mentorship, and flexibility in methods employed to achieve common goals are most likely to capture the interest and cooperation of members of generation X and possibly Y. Future studies should test effects of particular interventions on outcome in terms of recruitment and performance milestones.
Shangraw
Robert E
RE
Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, USA. shangraw@ohsu.edu
Whitten
Charles W
CW
D000046:Academic Medical Centers; D000367:Age Factors; D000776:Anesthesiology; D002321:Career Choice; D005180:Faculty, Medical; D006801:Humans; D016901:Intergenerational Relations; D007396:Internship and Residency; D019300:Medical Errors; D010560:Personnel Selection / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011157:Population Dynamics; D013192:Staff Development / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017132:Workplace / Q000458:organization & administration