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Theory-based study of the basic values of 565 physical therapists
1Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Room 346, Schroeder Health Science Complex, Milwaukee WI 53201-1881, USA. larry.nosse@marquette.edu
Physical Therapy
|August 25, 2005
Summary
Physical therapists prioritize benevolence values, rating them highest and power values lowest. This study explored the organization of their core values and age-related differences in value importance.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Belief that values influence behavior is prevalent in physical therapy literature.
- Limited research exists on physical therapists' specific values.
- A values theory provides a framework for understanding these values.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the organization of basic values among physical therapists.
- To test hypotheses regarding age-related differences in value priorities.
- To apply values theory to the physical therapy profession.
Main Methods:
- Survey administered to 565 physical therapists (Wisconsin Physical Therapy Association).
- Modified Schwartz Values Survey used for value importance ratings.
- Descriptive and nonparametric statistics, plus nonmetric multidimensional scaling, were employed.
Main Results:
- The structure of physical therapists' values aligned with the theoretical model.
- Benevolence values were rated as most important; power values were rated as least important.
- Three out of seven hypotheses concerning age-related value differences were supported.
Conclusions:
- Values theory effectively explains the organization of physical therapists' values.
- The findings offer explanations for age-based variations in value priorities.
- Physical therapists place a high emphasis on altruistic values, with low importance given to power values.