Master of Arts, Miami University, 2007, Speech Pathology and Audiology

The purpose of the study was to obtain information regarding speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) perceptions of appropriate clinical dress. Two hundred twenty seven participants working in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, acute and rehabilitation hospitals, home health care, long term care and general clinics completed a questionnaire. The questionnaire contained items regarding current work setting including information regarding dress code practices at the participants' place of clinical practice. Four photographs depicting different forms of clinical attire accompanied the questionnaire. Results indicated that business formal attire is most preferred by SLPs and casual dress is least preferred. The second most preferred type of attire was a white lab coat. Results also indicated business formal attire yields the highest ranking for perceived level of interpersonal skills, appropriateness for therapy, perceived level of intelligence, amount of experience in the field and professionalism.

Committee: Alice Kahn (Advisor) Subjects: