Occupational perceptions of physiotherapists and physiotherapy students in Turkey: A comparative study

BACKGROUND: The social position, perceived prestige and image of a profession are often of interest to members of that profession, and physiotherapy is no exception. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the perceived occupational prestige and image of physiotherapists and physiotherapy students in Turkey. METHODS: 235 physiotherapy students and 465 physiotherapists were included in the study. A survey questioning occupational image, job satisfaction and prestige of the profession according to eight occupations was completed by the participants online. RESULTS: In terms of prestige, physiotherapy students ranked their profession fourth among eight undergraduate professions, while physiotherapists ranked their profession fifth. Compared to physiotherapists, physiotherapy students had more positive perceptions about their children becoming physiotherapists, the image of the profession in the eyes of the society, and job satisfaction (p < 0.05). Professional expectations of physiotherapists were higher than students. In addition, physiotherapists working for more than ten years had more positive perceptions about their children becoming physiotherapists, the public image of the profession, income level, and social standing, although perceived job satisfaction and need status were lower compared to physiotherapists with less than ten years of experience (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: While physiotherapy students in Turkey perceived the prestige of the physiotherapist profession at a moderate level compared to other undergraduate professions, physiotherapists had a slightly lower perception of professional prestige compared to students. More comprehensive studies are needed on this subject.