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Published on: February 16, 2011
Exploration of Racial Bias and Microaggressions Experienced by PT Students During First Clinical Education
Michelle L Donahue1, Lauren Snowdon, Megan Hotchkiss
1Dep. of Physical Therapy, Nazareth University, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618, USA. Tel 585-389-2525. mdonahu1@naz.edu.
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Literature from other healthcare professions has investigated underrepresented students' experiences during clinical education (CE), yet the physical therapy literature contains limited studies highlighting bias during students' CE experiences. This study explored the prevalence, magnitude, frequencies, and perceptions of racial bias (RB) and racial microaggressions (RM) that Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students experienced during their first full-time clinical education experience (FFCE). An anonymous survey was created based on validated RB and RM tools, and results analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative information was examined using content analysis. Data from 231 surveys revealed that 56 (24.2%) participants reported experiencing RB and 39 (17.9%) experienced RM. Underrepresented minority students reported significantly higher prevalence, magnitude, and frequency of RB and RM compared to White students. Three qualitative themes emerged: protection of self, protection of others and prevention, and uncertainty regarding the appropriate professional response. DPT students experience and witness RB and RM during FFCE. Academic and clinical partners must recognize these acts, create training resources, and develop reporting mechanisms for all health education students.
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