Influence of Personality on Ethical Decision-Making in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Authors

Jennifer K. Binkley, Abilene Christian UniversityFollow
Terry W. Baggs, Abilene Christian UniversityFollow

Abstract

Purpose: A relationship between personality and ethical decision-making has been demonstrated in professions both within and outside of healthcare. However, this relationship has not been examined in the rehabilitation therapies, including speech-language pathology (SLP). Given the ethical dilemmas faced by therapists, it is important to assess this relationship and to modify ethical training when warranted. Methods: A total of 175 undergraduate communication sciences and disorders students participated in completing the Kiersey Temperament Sorter II and the Defining Issues Test-2. Scores were statistically compared to determine the relationship between the two assessments. Results: Based on a model of moral reasoning development, high scores on the DIT-2 are believed to correlate with post-conventional reasoning skills. Higher scores were statistically related to personality scores of strong introversion (I) and strong intuiting (N). Conclusion: Participants with strong introversion (I) and strong intuiting (N) traits may have natural skills for higher levels of moral reasoning. This implies that training modules for students and therapists should recognize personality differences and assist all individuals in developing best methods of problem solving in the face of specific personality traits.

Author Bio(s)

Jennifer Binkley, PhD, CCC-SLP, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, TX. She is also a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist in the state of Texas.

Terry Baggs, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is Interim Vice Provost and Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Abilene Christian University, in Abilene, TX. He is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist in the state of Texas.

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the contribution of Kristina Garcia and Jaclyn Butterworth Attkisson for their early assistance with this research.

Recommended Citation

Binkley JK, Baggs TW. Influence of Personality on Ethical Decision-Making in Communication Sciences and Disorders. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2023 Dec 15;22(1), Article 17.