Perceived Autonomy and Work Satisfaction amongst Psychiatrists in the NHS

Findings from a 1987 survey of work satisfaction among 193 consultants and junior doctors in psychiatry in Yorkshire are reported. While nearly two‐thirds of doctors report they are generally satisfied,a substantial number of consultants and junior doctors are dissatisfied with their resources, status and autonomy, and professional relationships. Regression analysis suggests that controlling for psychiatrists′ personal and professional characteristics and variables related to district management are important in explaining differences in perceived clinical autonomy and work satisfaction among psychiatrists. Opportunities for district management to help improve psychiatrist satisfaction are proposed, and the relevance of the recent White Paper Working for Patients is examined.