. Michelle Zechner; . Ellen Z. Anderson; . Ann A. Murphy; . Anthony Zazzarino; . Sean Karyczak
Volume 12, Issue 10 , November 2022, , Pages 1-6
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Physical therapists provide important services for improving health and function forthe general population; however, physical therapy (PT) is infrequently accessed by persons ...
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BACKGROUND: Physical therapists provide important services for improving health and function forthe general population; however, physical therapy (PT) is infrequently accessed by persons with aprimary diagnosis of severe mental illness (SMI). This study examined the attitudes of PT studentsbefore and during their participation in a service‑learning (SL) program for people with SMI.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional institutional review board approved qualitative studycollected 1‑h semi‑structured qualitative interviews from seven graduates of a doctor of PT program.Participants were from a New Jersey University program in the USA who participated in an SMI SLexperience. Participants were asked about participant attitudes toward people with SMI and theirobservations during a SL experience using an interview guide. All interviews were digitally recorded,transcribed, and coded using interpretive phenomenological analysis by a team of researchers. Thistype of qualitative analysis aims to explore participants understanding of their experience withoutpre‑conceived theoretical direction. Recordings, transcripts, and field notes were reviewed forrecurring ideas that were summarized into codes. Through independent coding, reflexivity memos,and consensus meetings, data were further analyzed to identify themes. Investigator triangulationaddressed differences and aided consensus development.RESULTS: Before the SL experience, the students reported negative perceptions about peoplewith SMI and feelings of uncertainty and unpreparedness to work with this population. Accordingto student reports, SL supported their personal and professional development and allowed them tosee that PT services are beneficial for people with SMI.CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate that PT students have negative attitudes of peoplewith SMI and feel unprepared to work with this population. The results also support SL as an effectivestrategy for helping students in their preparation for working with people with SMI.