Evolution of professional identity in Iranian occupational therapy students and new graduates: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction The development of professional attitude evolves over time and contributes to the formation of professional identity. This study tracked formation of professional identity by comparing professional attitudes of three cohorts: new graduates, final-year, and first-year students of occupational therapy. Method The online survey, including a 5-point Likert scale 17-item questionnaire and one qualitative inquiry using an incomplete statement, revealed the perception and future career prospects of 144 novice practitioners and students of occupational therapy. Written statements were compared to each other to provide insight about the participants’ perspectives during the three time periods. Findings One-way ANOVA indicated that there were significant differences in professional attitudes among the three cohorts (F (2, 141) = 14.32, p < 0.0001), demonstrating a downward trend in professional identity formation. The comparison analysis of statements confirmed the quantitative results and highlighted an issue of negative professional identity through indicating great concerns over the future career prospects. Conclusion Despite increased awareness of occupational therapy over time, these participants seemed to have had trouble developing a sound sense of professional identity. Possible sources and solutions for this issue were discussed, to better facilitate a clear sense of professional identity in occupational therapy students and practitioners.