Investigating the Influence of Career Orientation on Career Satisfaction of Dentists Facing Sexual Harassment in Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The study examines the impact of sexual harassment on the career satisfaction of female dentists in Islamabad, Pakistan. It also investigates the moderating role of career orientation. Sexual harassment is a critical concern in healthcare settings globally, and its effects on well-being have been well-documented. However, there is a need to understand its specific impact on female dentists in this context. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, utilizing a modified questionnaire covering demographic details, sexual harassment experiences, career orientation, and career satisfaction. The study focused on female dentists in private dental clinics and hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, conducted over a four-month period from April to August 2022. Data was collected through Google Forms, social media platforms, and hard copy submissions. Out of 235 responses received, 5 were excluded due to incomplete information, resulting in a final sample of 230 participants. Results: Demographic analysis revealed that a majority (89.6%) of female dentists were in the 20 to 30 years age range. Furthermore, 198 dentists (86.1%) held BDS-level education. In terms of positions, 58 dentists (25.2%) had managerial responsibilities, while 172 (74.8%) solely performed clinical duties. Most dentists (87.8%) had 1 to 5 years of experience. Reliability analysis demonstrated high internal consistency for the measuring scale items. Correlation analysis revealed no significant correlation between sexual harassment and career orientation. However, a small yet positive correlation was observed between career orientation and career satisfaction. The most noteworthy finding was the negative and moderately strong correlation between sexual harassment and career satisfaction, indicating that higher levels of harassment were associated with lower satisfaction. Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the experiences of female dentists facing sexual harassment in Islamabad, Pakistan. It highlights the detrimental impact of sexual harassment on career satisfaction and emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues to enhance the well-being and professional fulfillment of female dentists. Additionally, the study underscores the role of career orientation in moderating this relationship, offering a potential avenue for interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of harassment. Further research with larger sample sizes and inclusion of male healthcare professionals is recommended to enhance the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, future studies should consider incorporating record-keeping sources to validate reports of sexual harassment.