Women dental students: preferences in support services

Female dental students in 68 American and Canadian dental schools were surveyed to determine their attitudes and concerns about women in dental school, and their preferences in support services. Almost 80 percent of the women reported that their sex did not not hinder them in achieving peak academic success. They believe that qualifications, rather than sex, should be the primary consideration in admitting students and hiring faculty. The majority of respondents indicated that the most beneficial support service for women would be a seminar series specific to their concerns. They also believe that to have women dentists used as role models in lectures and textbooks would be both appropriate and supportive.