Reliability and Validity of the Professional Identity Scale for Physiotherapists with 37 items

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a professional identity scale for physical therapists (PT) and verify its reliability and validity. Methods: In the preliminary survey, scale items designed based on previous studies, were examined using an interview survey. In the present study, a large-scale survey was conducted using a questionnaire, and the reliability and validity of the scale were re-examined. Results: A five-factor, 37-item scale was completed for “development and contribution to junior staff, training and development of professional groups,” “PT professional view,” “PT practical skills,” “PT sense of adjustment,” and “desire to contribute to multi-professional collaboration.” Cronbach’s α coefficients for the subscales ranged from 0.85 to 0.94, confirming their reliability. Criterion-related validity was confirmed by correlations with the Japanese version of the occupational commitment Scale and the Japanese version of the Burnout Scale. Conclusion: A scale reflecting PT occupational characteristics was developed and its reliability and validity were verified. This scale can be used as a guide to foster the professional identity of PT.