The occupational prestige of physiotherapy: Perceptions of student physiotherapists in Australia

Abstract

Within the framework of occupational prestige assessment, this survey was carried out amongst future physiotherapists in Australia to determine their perceived standing of physiotherapy relative to a range of occupations including several within the medical field. A questionnaire was administered to 258 undergraduate physiotherapy students. Twelve occupations were rated on six dimensions, ie levels of income, education, social standing, responsibility and usefulness, and the proportion of women. The results indicate that amongst future physiotherapists in Australia, their profession possesses relatively high status, together with solicitor, doctor and judge, and is differentiated from the proximate professions of nurse and chiropractor. These results are similar to those obtained from the Australian public, and are in distinct contrast to the perceptions of the profession that emerged amongst physiotherapy students in England. Physiotherapy in Australia is held in high esteem - it has a clear identity and professional status, and is likely to be seen as a desirable future occupation for both genders.