Job choice and personality: a profile of Michigan occupational and physical therapists

The aim of this descriptive study was to compare the personality profiles of occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) and examine the relationship between personality and job choice. The Kiersey-Bates Personality Inventory (70-item questionnaire) and a brief demographic survey were mailed to a random sample of 400 Ts and 400 PTs in Michigan. A total of 294 completed surveys were returned for analysis, for a combined response rate of 37%. Results showed that while the demographic profiles of OTs and PTs were similar, there were very significant differences between OTs and PTs with respect to personality. The implications of these findings for professional health education are discussed.