Differences in Values and Goals of Occupational Therapy Students

Author

Margaret A. Danka

Date of Award

12-1990

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Dr. Barbara Rider

Second Advisor

Dr. Claire Callan

Third Advisor

Dr. Dean Tyndall

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

This study compared professional values and goals of three levels of occupational therapy students: (1) seniors in baccalaureate programs (n = 337), (2) students in professional master's programs (n = 95), and (3) students in post-professional master's programs (n = 62). Demographic characteristics and factors influencing career choice were also examined.

Significant differences were found among the three student groups for three professional goals: (1) contributing to theory, (2) doing research, and (3) educating occupational therapy students, and four professional values: (1) intellectual stimulation, (2) exciting life, (3) comfortable life, and (4) helpfulness. The demographic differences among the three student groups that were most pronounced were parents' educational background, continuing education, and elementary and secondary school achievement.

Implications for career counseling, recruitment, increased manpower, decreased shortage of occupational therapists, decreased attrition, and future curriculum planning were generated from the results.

Recommended Citation

Danka, Margaret A., "Differences in Values and Goals of Occupational Therapy Students" (1990). Masters Theses. 1052.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/1052