Conceptualizing Professionalism in Dietetics: An Australasian Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Dietetics Research
• Qualitative Health Research

Background:

• Professionalism is crucial in healthcare, yet understanding within dietetics is limited compared to other health professions.
• A lack of research on dietetics professionalism hinders the development of shared understanding in multidisciplinary teams.
• Defining professionalism in dietetics is essential for cohesive healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the conceptualization of professionalism among dietetic practitioners, faculty, and new graduates.
• To identify key dimensions of professionalism within the dietetics field.
• To compare understandings of professionalism across different stakeholder groups in dietetics.

Main Methods:

• A constructionist, exploratory qualitative interview study was conducted.
• One hundred participants (graduates, faculty, practitioners/preceptors) from 17 universities across Australia and New Zealand were interviewed.
• Thematic framework analysis was employed to analyze interview data.

Main Results:

• Twenty-three dimensions of dietetics professionalism were identified, with communication being the most common.
• Four novel dimensions were discovered: generational, emotion management, cultural capability, and advocacy.
• While generally consistent, some differences in professionalism conceptualization were observed across stakeholder groups.

Conclusions:

• The identified dimensions provide a framework for teaching and learning professionalism in dietetics.
• Clarifying professionalism expectations enhances shared understanding among dietitians and multidisciplinary teams.
• This research contributes new insights into professionalism literature, particularly regarding emotion management and generational aspects.