Exploring Occupational Therapists' Professional Identity: A Q-Method Study.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Therapy
• Professional Identity Development
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Professional identity is crucial for occupational therapists but remains understudied.
• Understanding the factors shaping this identity is essential for professional development.
• This research addresses the need for deeper insights into occupational therapists' professional identity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the rarely studied factors influencing professional identity from an occupational therapist's viewpoint.
• To identify and categorize the diverse perspectives on professional identity within the occupational therapy profession.
• To provide a foundation for improving educational strategies in occupational therapy.

Main Methods:

• Q-methodology was employed to discern different perspectives on professional identity.
• A non-probability sampling method was used across the Spanish territory.
• An ad hoc 40-statement tool, classified into four categories, was developed and analyzed using Ken-Q analysis.

Main Results:

• Thirty-seven occupational therapists participated, revealing diverse viewpoints on professional identity.
• Identified perspectives include the role of referents, a 'grey field' of uncertainty, reaffirming a common identity, and the impact of education and mentors.
• Ongoing training was highlighted as a critical factor in developing professional identity.

Conclusions:

• The study elucidates multifaceted aspects of occupational therapists' professional identity.
• Findings underscore the importance of educational and mentoring influences.
• This understanding can inform the design of adaptive curricula and future educational initiatives for occupational therapists.