The Influence of Physical Therapy Content on the Image of Physical Therapy among First-Time Students of Physical Therapy in Japan

Abstract: 　This study investigates the impact of viewing clinical judgment physiotherapy videos on the perception of physiotherapy among new university students in the Department of Physical Therapy, focusing on whether prior personal experience with physiotherapy affects this perception. It highlights the challenge in shaping a standardized positive image of physical therapy due to varying experiences and perceptions among students. Specifically, the research aimed to discover if such videos could positively alter the image of physiotherapy among students, irrespective of their personal treatment history. A total of 142 students participated, undergoing pre-assessment surveys, viewing a clinical scenario video, and then taking post-viewing surveys to evaluate changes in their perceptions. The video depicted a physiotherapy session aimed at treating orthostatic hypotension using a tilting table, intending to provide a realistic insight into physiotherapeutic clinical judgment and procedures. Results showed a nuanced impact: while there was no significant overall change in positive perception, a detailed analysis revealed a decrease in positive perception among students with prior physiotherapy experience but an increase among those without. This suggests that prior experience with physiotherapy might anchor students' perceptions, potentially limiting the efficacy of video interventions in altering these views. The discussion section delves into the implications of these findings, noting the anxiety about physiotherapy's life-threatening actions among experienced students and the increased understanding and interest among inexperienced students. It argues for the necessity of broadening students' perceptions of physiotherapy beyond their initial experiences, stressing the legal and educational framework within which physiotherapy operates in Japan. The paper suggests that private universities face a delicate balance in providing legally compliant education that also motivates students and prepares them for diverse careers in physiotherapy. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of introductory education in physiotherapy that accommodates students' varied backgrounds and perceptions, aiming to foster a uniformly positive and comprehensive understanding of the profession. It suggests that exposure to clinical situations through videos can influence students' motivation and perception, albeit differently based on their prior experiences with physiotherapy.