Master's Theses

Department

Psychology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to survey psychologists and massage therapists in a Midwestern state about their attitudes towards integrating the two fields. Specifically, willingness to refer, willingness to work collaboratively, attitudes towards each field, and personal experiences with each field were assessed. In addition, psychologists’ use of touch and attitudes towards the use of touch were examined while massage therapists’ experience with client disclosure was explored. Results of this study show differences between the two professions in willingness to refer clients, willingness to work collaboratively, and attitudes towards the other field. Results indicated a positive relationship between experiences and willingness to refer for both psychologists and massage therapists. For psychologists, results also showed positive relationships between attitudes towards the use of touch in therapy and attitudes toward bodywork, use of touch in psychotherapy and attitudes towards the use of touch, and willingness to refer clients for bodywork and experiences with bodywork. For massage therapists, a positive relationship was observed between attitudes towards mental health services and willingness to refer.

Keywords

Psychology

Advisor

Carrie Nassif

Date of Award

Spring 2008

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© The Author(s)

Comments

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