Physical Therapist Leaders: How gritty are they?

Susan G. Klappa, Lois E. Fulto

Abstract

This phenomenological study utilized the Grit Scale survey and interviews to investigate levels of grit among physical therapist (PT) leaders. Grit has been defined by Duckworth as perseverance and long term focus on goals. Phase I (n = 13) utilized the Grit Scale survey and Phase II (n = 5) utilized phenomenological interviews. The Grit Scale survey data were analyzed with SPSS 20. Qualitative data were analyzed with the whole-parts-whole method of Giorgi, Dahlberg, Drew, and Nyström. Participants had high grit scores (3.9 + .47) and demonstrated leadership at the local district, state, and national levels. Group mean for grit among PTs was higher than values found by Duckworth for Ivy League undergraduates, West Point cadets, adults aged 25 years, and National Spelling Bee participants. Themes emerging from the phenomenological interviews included: 1) Bold openness with a growth mindset; 2) Self-reflection; 3) Learning from challenges; and 4) Importance of mentors. Physical therapist leaders embodied high qualities of grit and were able to articulate how they focused on their long term goals despite challenges. Better understanding grit among students applying to PT school may help educators predict future leaders and add diversity of talent to the physical therapy profession.