Document Type
Article
Abstract
Context: The attrition of athletic trainers remains a challenge to the profession. Generational conflicts have emerged in employment culture and may impact athletic trainer retention. Yet there are no studies on generational differences in athletic training. Objective: Examine the effect of generational differences on measures that have been linked to vitality of the profession. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Online (Qualtrics, Provo, UT). Participants: The survey was sent to 5,937 random individuals through the NATA, 5.8% responded. Most participants identified as Millennial, European American women working in the secondary setting. Main Outcome Measures: This survey consisted of demographic questions, the TIS-6, PIVS-AT, and Professional Commitment Scale. We used a one-way ANOVA to compare professional identity between generations, and Kruskal-Wallis analyses were used to compare turnover intention and professional commitment in relation to generations. We used a multiple regression analysis to identify factors influencing professional commitment. Results: Participants demonstrated expected levels of turnover intention, professional identity, and professional commitment. We identified significant differences between generations on professional identity, professional commitment, and turnover intention. Specifically, Millennials and Generation Z, Millennials and Baby Boomers, Generation Z and Generation X, and Generation Z and Baby Boomers showed significant differences in professional identity. Turnover intention was significantly different between Millennials and Generation X, Millennials and Baby Boomers, and Generation Z and Baby Boomers. Professional commitment was significantly different between Millennials and Baby Boomers and Generation Z and Baby Boomers. Collectively, generation, turnover intention, and professional identity were significant and moderately predictive of professional commitment; however, turnover intention alone was the most powerful, inversely predictive factor of professional commitment. Conclusions: Significant differences in professional identity, professional commitment, and turnover intention exist among athletic trainers of different generations. Generational differences should continue to be studied in athletic training, as well as if these differences cause conflict.
Publication Date
12-1-2024
Recommended Citation
Condrey, Kalynn, "Generational Differences in Factors Affecting the Vitality of the Profession" (2024). Bakerman Student Research Awards. 38.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/bakerman/38