Document Type

Thesis - NSU Access Only

Title

Extent of Inappropriate Patient Sexual Behavior Toward Florida Physical Therapists

Authors

James Weinstein, Nova Southeastern University

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Copyright Statement

All rights reserved. This publication is intended for use solely by faculty, students, and staff of Nova Southeastern University. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, now known or later developed, including but not limited to photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author or the publisher.

Department

College of Health Care Sciences - Physical Therapy Department

Publication Date / Copyright Date

1998

Publisher

Nova Southeastern University

NSUWorks Citation

James Weinstein. 1998. Extent of Inappropriate Patient Sexual Behavior Toward Florida Physical Therapists. Master's thesis. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, College of Health Care Sciences - Physical Therapy Department. (165)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_pt_stuetd/165.

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the extent of inappropriate patient sexual behavior (IPSB) and the manner to which physical therapists are dealing with the inappropriate behavior.

Subjects: 330 licensed Florida physical therapists.

Method: Descriptive study, random sample was mailed the Inappropriate Patient Sexual Behavior Questionnaire. It was subdivided into mild, moderate, and severe. Statistical analysis was frequency tabulations and Pearson chi-square.

Results: Nearly 80% of respondents encountered mild IPSB; women were significantly more likely to incur uncomfortable staring and receive flattering or sexual remarks. More than 62% of the sample experienced moderate IPSB. More than 31% incurred severe IPSB. Women were significantly more likely to be fondled, forcefully grabbed, or kissed. Two of the 94 women respondents were subjected to attempted rape. Orthopedic (58%), neurological (43%), and psychiatric (31%) patients were the highest perpetrators of IPSB. An average of 43% of the respondents encountered IPSB in acute hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Of the sample who encountered IPSB, 20% incurred negative emotional consequences.

Conclusion: IPSB is occurring in physical therapy in Florida at a high rate. Results may indicate a need for inservices and CEU in IPSB and sexual harassment training in college curriculum.

Disciplines

Physical Therapy