Date of Award
Winter 1-10-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Leadership Studies
Committee Chair
Dr. Sara Bailey
Committee Member
Dr. Lucinda Spaulding
Committee Member
Dr. Benjamin Radack
Abstract
Anxiety, stress, and depression are increasingly prevalent among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students, exceeding rates observed in their age-matched peers. This growing concern has prompted recommendations for physical therapy educators to implement strategies aimed at reducing anxiety and improving students’ mental health and well-being. However, there is a lack of research on the specific nature and implementation of such programs within DPT curricula. This grounded theory study developed a theoretical model describing how programs, activities, and resources implemented throughout a DPT program could improve the mental health and well-being of students who experience increased stress, anxiety symptoms, and depression symptoms during the program. at a small, private, not-for-profit university in the southeastern U.S. The study addressed the central question: What are the integral components of a theoretical model for a DPT program to improve the mental health and well-being of students facing increased psychological distress? Data collection involved questionnaires with current students (n = 96), and questionnaires, one-on-one interviews, and focus group discussions with graduates (n = 41, n = 18, n = 13, respectively) of the program. A rigorous multi-step analysis was conducted, employing constant comparison and open, axial, and selective coding to uncover concepts, themes, and categories. The resulting theoretical model highlighted the factors contributing to stress, anxiety, and depression among DPT students and demonstrated how coping strategies and targeted interventions could alleviate psychological distress. This model provides a framework for educators to design and implement evidence-based initiatives to enhance the mental health and overall well-being of DPT students.
Rights
© 2025 Lynette Reina ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Recommended Citation
Reina, Lynette, "A Theoretical Model to Decrease Stress and Anxiety and Improve Mental Health and Well-Being in Physical Therapy Students: A Grounded Theory Study" (2025). Graduate Dissertations and Theses. 58.
https://digitalshowcase.lynchburg.edu/etd/58