A Pilot Survey of Pediatric Occupational and Physical Therapy Providers’ Confidence, Attitudes, Barriers, and Education Regarding Trauma-Informed Care

Abstract

Aim Trauma-informed care (TIC) is a strengths-based organizational approach which recognizes the prevalence and impact of trauma on an individual’s neurological, sensorimotor, and emotional responses and development. There is limited research on pediatric occupational therapy providers’ (OTPs) and physical therapy providers’ (PTPs) perceptions on incorporating TIC into their practice. This pilot study aims to describe the confidence, attitudes, barriers, and education of pediatric OTPs and PTPs regarding TIC. Method OTPs and PTPs (n = 87) working in pediatric settings in the U.S. completed an electronic survey regarding their perceptions of TIC. Results OTPs reported higher confidence in TIC compared to PTPs. Most participants reported favorable attitudes toward TIC, yet no statistical significance was identified between the two professions’ overall attitudes toward TIC. Collectively, participants reported lack of time and training as barriers. There was a statistically significant difference between how the two professions rated competency, training, and concern over clients’ retraumatization. There was significant association between years of professional experience and TIC education. Conclusion Preliminary findings indicate an overall agreement of OTPs and PTPs with principles of TIC and common barriers to TIC practice. There are implications to further integrate opportunities for TIC training into foundational education and professional practice.