A comparative investigation of personality traits between two allied health professions: Occupational therapy and physiotherapy

Abstract

Background/Aims: In a health care climate that promotes interprofessional collaboration, it is not uncommon for specialists of varying professions to work side by side to provide high-quality patient care. However, it is possible for such working relationships to not always run smoothly, secondary to underlying personality differences. The objective of this study was to explore similarities and differences in targeted personality traits between occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs). Methods: A total of 300 therapists, 150 from each profession, were selected randomly from membership listings in their respective national associations. All participants were sent a multi-page questionnaire focusing on an assessment of personality traits based on the Big Five Inventory, along with rating scales for traits of assertiveness and empathy. Results: Responses from 121 therapists (40.3%) were received. Analyses revealed similarities between OTs and PTs in self-ratings of conscientiousness, extraversion and neuroticism. However, differences were found between the two groups for the traits of agreeableness and openness, with OTs rating themselves higher than PTs on both traits. In regard to the two additional traits of assertiveness and empathy, OTs and PTs rated PTs higher than OTs in assertiveness, while both OTs and PTs rated OTs higher than PTs in empathy. Within the groups, OTs rated themselves as more empathetic than assertive, while PTs tended to rate themselves equally high in both empathy and assertiveness. Conclusions: There appears to be some degree of overlap and some degree of distinct variation between personality traits of members of the two professions. Discussion suggests that differences in trait ratings are in part due to individual differences but are also impacted by variations in prerequisite and professional academic coursework and training.