Reasons Given by California Physical Therapists for Not Belonging to the American Physical Therapy Association

• Published in: Physical therapy 2001-06, Vol.81 (6), p.1224-1232
• Main Authors: McGinty, Susan M, Cicero, Michael C, Cicero, Jessica ME, Schultz-Janney, Lori, Williams-Shipman, Kari L
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Beliefs, opinions and attitudes; California; Data Collection; Decision Making; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Physical therapists; Physical Therapy Modalities - statistics & numerical data; Sampling Studies; Societies - organization & administration; United States
• ISSN: 0031-9023; 1538-6724
• DOI: 10.1093/ptj/81.6.1224

In 1997, only 22% of licensed physical therapists living in California were members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). This 1998 study was designed to identify the reason(s) why most licensed physical therapists in California choose not to belong to their profession's national association and to examine the demographics of nonmembers. The subjects were a random sample of 400 California licensed physical therapists who were not members of APTA. The survey instrument included a demographic questionnaire and statements for response using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Frequency distributions were calculated for responses and demographic data. Nonparametric analyses were used to determine statistical significance. Chi-square analysis was used to compare responses to statements by gender and by full-time versus part-time work status. Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used to determine any relationships between demographic data (eg, gender and work status). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to determine any differences in responses to specific representation questions by those respondents who worked in those environments. All statistical tests were 2-tailed tests conducted at the P(.05 level, unless otherwise indicated. Means, standard deviations, and ranges were used where appropriate. There was a 67% response rate. Eighty-nine percent of the respondents had been members of APTA. Eighty-eight percent of the respondents believed that APTA national dues were too high, and 90% thought California Chapter dues were too high. Cost was the primary reason given for APTA nonmembership in California.