Professional behavior in the orthopedic resident. A method for evaluation and development

The affective behavior of orthopedic residents may be the most important indicator of their ability to function as orthopedic surgeons. Seven years of personal observations were combined with the experience of more than 300 participants in the Basic Course for Orthopaedic Educators, and recorded from the results of a recent questionnaire answered by members of the Association of Orthopaedic Chairmen. The affective domain was found to supply the answers to most of the problems of orthopedic residents. An evaluation of affective behavior early in the residency program may help to determine residents' suitability for a career in orthopedic surgery.