Abstract
BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the attitudes of registered physiotherapists (PTs) in Israel toward people identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and to identify background characteristics associated with their attitudes toward LGB individuals.MethodsThis nationwide study in Israel employed an observational design. Participants completed an anonymous online questionnaire which included demographic characteristics (e.g., age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and religiousness) and questions regarding sources of knowledge about LGB individuals, and type of acquaintance with an LGB individual. In addition to two self-assessment questions regarding levels of homophobia (active engagement against LGB individuals) and heterosexism (holding negative opinions regarding LGB individuals) answered on a five point Likert scale (1 – not at all homophobic/ heterosexist, 5- very homophobic/ heterosexist) and the Hebrew version of the Attitudes Toward Homosexuality Scale (ATHS). Participants were recruited through professional organizations, social media, and word of mouth.ResultsThe data of 383 registered PTs practicing in Israel were analyzed. The median score regarding level of homophobia and heterosexism was one (“not at all”). ATHS scores ranged between 32 and 110 (out of 110), with a median score of 106 and 41% scoring below the median. Multivariant logistic regression indicated that identifying as men, heterosexual orientation, and religiousness were significantly associated with less positive attitudes toward LGB individuals. Only 2% of the participants reported having been introduced to issues regarding the LGB community during their professional physiotherapy education.ConclusionsRegistered PTs in Israel demonstrated favorable attitudes toward LGB individuals, as reflected both by ATHS scores and levels of self-reported homophobia and heterosexism. Based on the current results regarding sources of knowledge, updating the physiotherapy curriculum to include information regarding sexual orientation and health of the LGB community is suggested.
Highlights
This study aimed to explore the attitudes of registered physiotherapists (PTs) in Israel toward people identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and to identify background characteristics associated with their attitudes toward LGB individuals
Stigmatization and derived negative attitudes toward LGBTI people are prevalent among the general population [4]
Most studies show that healthcare professionals, such as physicians [7], nurses [7], dentists, mental health professionals [6, 7], athletic trainers [8], and social workers [7] do demonstrate varying degrees of sexual prejudice, negative attitudes, and biased care toward sexual minority patients
Summary
This study aimed to explore the attitudes of registered physiotherapists (PTs) in Israel toward people identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) and to identify background characteristics associated with their attitudes toward LGB individuals. Sexual minorities often endure poorer physical, mental, and sexual health compared to heterosexual individuals [1]. Some studies have reported positive and tolerant attitudes toward LGBTI people among healthcare professionals [5, 6]. Most studies show that healthcare professionals, such as physicians [7], nurses [7], dentists, mental health professionals [6, 7], athletic trainers [8], and social workers [7] do demonstrate varying degrees of sexual prejudice, negative attitudes, and biased care toward sexual minority patients. Psychologists and social workers generally exhibit more positive attitudes toward LGBTI people [7, 9] compared to nurses and physicians [7, 10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
