Editors and authors: two halves of a whole

A Historical Review of Key Events and Components of Faculty and Professional Development in Psychiatry

Psychiatry's evolution has entailed clinical, educational, research, and administrative missions. Faculty development efforts concern ways in which professional identity, attitudes and skills are transmitted and enhanced from generation to generation. Top-down efforts by national and international organizations and bottom-up movements by individuals in numerous local settings have helped faculty and guided the profession forward. Organizations have provided new faculty with access to mentors and peers across the country, training opportunities, and up-to-date information on emerging scientific, pedagogical, and regulatory trends. Additional innovations and evaluation regarding best practices for faculty development initiatives in psychiatry are needed.