Transformational leadership in physical therapy: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore the lived experience of leadership within outpatient physical therapists and to assess if the participants' lived experience of leadership is congruent with existing leadership theory.

Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight outpatient physical therapists within a single southeastern state of the USA to discuss their lived experience with leadership within their professional roles. The data was analyzed inductively through in vivo coding, second cycle coding and development of themes.

Findings: The results of this study produced three themes surrounding the lived experience of leadership by outpatient physical therapists: How they lead, the important skills necessary to lead and the rewards of leadership.

Research limitations/implications: The lived experience of outpatient physical therapists appears to be congruent with transformational leadership theory. Researchers should consider using the transformational leadership theory framework to investigate and assess the effectiveness of leadership within physical therapy.

Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this research is the first time that the perspectives of those living the experience of leadership in physical therapy have been sought out for their perspectives on what leadership is within the field, which has implications for future research, leadership development and assessment of effective leadership.