Physician Assistant Self-Directed Search Holland Codes

Abstract

A mailed survey was used to identify the vocational interests of physician assistants (PAs) as measured by Holland’s Self-Directed Search (SDS) Form R. A random sample of 2,323 PAs from the American Academy of Physician Assistants’ mailing list was sent a survey to identify a pool of practicing PAs satisfied with their career choices for further study with the SDS. Of the 1,137 respondents, 945 met the inclusion criteria for SDS participation. Nine hundred twenty-one SDS booklets were sent to qualifying PAs, with 463 usable booklets returned. The PA Holland profile was identified as SIREAC. Men had significantly higher realistic scores than women, even within the surgical and family/general practice specialties. Some implications for the career counseling of individuals considering entry into the PA profession are discussed.

Keywords

self-directed search physician assistant Holland profile vocational personality career counseling vocational satisfaction Holland code

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