Generativity in Physician Assistants: Insights Amid a Preceptor Shortage

Amid a preceptor shortage, this pilot study examined the relationship between generativity, a psychosocial construct reflecting concern for guiding the next generation, and demographic characteristics among physician assistants (PAs), gaining insights for PA programs about intrinsic factors motivating preceptorship.

This descriptive correlational study analyzed survey data from 45 nationally certified PAs. Participants completed a one-time questionnaire assessing demographics, precepting status, and generativity using the validated Loyola Generativity Scale. Nonparametric analyses, correlations, and multiple regression were performed.

Generativity scores did not differ significantly by precepting status ( P = .88). Years of practice and full-time employment were associated with higher generativity scores, though differences were not statistically significant. Correlations between generativity and age, employment status, and practice setting were weak.

Although statistically nonsignificant, observed trends suggest generativity may warrant further investigation as an intrinsic factor related to precepting. Findings are hypothesis-generating and may inform future research and preceptor recruitment strategies.