Scoping Out Leadership Opportunities and Motivational Factors of Doctor of Physical Therapy Students

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to open investigation into the scope of leadership opportunities available to students at a physical therapy educational program and to identify factors that motivated students to pursue leadership development opportunities during their pre-professional education. Methods: This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews to investigate the experiences and perspectives of current and former student leaders. Participants were queried regarding what leadership opportunities were available to them and what motivated them to pursue those specific roles. Results: Findings revealed the scope of leadership development opportunities included experiences within and external to the Doctor of Physical Therapy educational program. Thematic analysis revealed participants were primarily motivated to pursue leadership opportunities for the purposes of enhancing career preparation, for the additional personal challenge, and through a desire to support or serve their cohort. A subset of incidental leaders also emerged. Conclusions: Expansion of leadership opportunities available to participants allowed individuals to pursue leadership development according to individual motivating factors. Participants in this study were primarily motivated by opportunities perceived to enhance the value of their education and career preparation. Understanding factors that motivate students to pursue leadership development could assist physical therapist educational programs to develop and implement effective leadership development opportunities to prepare students for professional practice.