An Assessment of Psychiatric Residents’ Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding ECT

Graduating psychiatric residents in the Philadelphia area were surveyed about their attitudes, training experiences, and knowledge regarding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Twenty-nine residents were interviewed. Although the majority of respondents expressed positive attitudes about the use of ECT, only two (7%) expressed confidence in their own ability to perform the treatment without supervision. The residents’ general attitudes regarding ECT as a therapeutic modality were consistent with those of previous surveys of practicing psychiatrists. The level of knowledge of the residents interviewed was not related to reported didactic or practical experience. Significant gaps in training were noted. The need for more thorough, standardized training in ECT is discussed.