Teaming as a Mechanism to Promote Professional Identity Development. Issue 3 (26th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gendron, Tracey L.; Welleford, E. Ayn; Jensen, Christine; Myers, Barbara J.
• Is Part Of: Clinical gerontologist. Volume 39:Issue 3(2016)
• Page Start: 252
• Page End: 259
• Publication Date: 2016-05-26
• Subjects: Aging services -- gerontology -- professional identity -- teamwork -- teamwork; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; Geriatric psychiatry -- Periodicals; Older people -- Mental health services -- Periodicals; Older people -- Psychology -- Periodicals; 618.97689
• DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2015.1120256
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0731-7115

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Objective: The purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate teamwork in gerontological practice.Methods: Participants (N = 475) were recruited through an online survey link sent through organizations and institutions serving older adults.Results: Findings demonstrated that age, length of time in profession and having a more positive view of teamwork made a positive difference in level of professional identity. Qualitative analysis demonstrated that personal and professional growth was identified thematically as an important element of teamwork.Conclusions: This study identifies that professionals working in aging services professions who practice teamwork identify value in teaming both personally and professionally. Identifying teaming experiences as relevant to professional identity development is important for elder workforce development and retention.