Introvert or Extrovert?

[pursue]

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First off wanted to say thanks again to all the regular contributers of this forum. As a lurker for 2+ years I was able to gain so much information/perspective about the profession of PT and didn't need to post because every question could be answered with a simple search.
What I haven't been able to find too much info/perspective on is the personality type of a physical therapist. I wanted to know whether you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert and how that affects your job satisfaction on a day to day basis? Also what type of setting you work in and if you think that setting caters more towards introverts or extroverts?
The reason I ask is im a natural introvert (not shy) that gets worn out with to much interaction. I've heard that outpatient orthopedics tends to favor the natural extrovert who likes to be chatty with patients and that the inpatient setting alows more quite time for deliberation. As of now (I'm open minded) I see myself more interested in outpatient but wonder if I could survive as an introvert. Thoughts?

 

[dizzy88]

I think a lot of people get caught up in the idea that good therapists are those that are extroverts. While that personality type can help, it's your knowledge that will make you a good PT. If you are genuinely interested in the field, ready to learn, and apply your knowledge appropriately, then you are absolutely fit for the profession.

I will say that you have to have some desire to interact with people. Patient education (and yes, small talk) is just a part of the job. If this seems like it would be draining for you, then I don't think you would enjoy your work day very much.

I wouldn't say that I noticed much of a difference between settings, but maybe that's just me. In fact, I think I got less "quiet time" in acute because of safety concerns. I had to be there holding the gait belt or taking measurements, etc. There is also a lot of communications between other disciplines.

Have you done much job shadowing yet?

 

[pursue]

I have shadowed a little bit ~100hrs. I'd say the that of the therapist I've shadowed 5/7 were more extraverted. I'm interested in the scientific underpinnings of the profession and don't mind some small talk and actually would really enjoy educating patients. What I fear is having to be in an upbeat perky mood the majority of the time in order to motivate patients to exercise. Thats just not my personality. I believe I can make it work, I was just looking for a little reassurance from current PT's that introvert's can thrive in the profession. As I person said in a previous thread that I read, I want a career that rewards my knowledge and critical thinking ability rather that my personality (like a personal trainer). Thanks for the reply

 

[dizzy88]

Ah, gotcha. Well, if it makes you feel any better, I don't have that perky "cheerleader" personality type either. I'm a new therapist, but so far it hasn't proven to be an issue! I would not let that factor into your decision if I were you 🙂 Good luck!

 

[Berzerkernuts]

I'm a new therapist who is a definite introvert. When I did affiliations in outpatient settings (adult and pediatric) I didn't feel like it was a problem. With the adults I would sort of follow their lead, like if they wanted to chat and I had the time I would engage with them, if not I would stick to instruction and education (with a friendly tone). I personally don't feel that perkiness makes one a better motivator, in fact, I would argue that some people even find it annoying. When working with children I maintained a calm, somewhat goofy demeanor and both my CI and I felt that that worked well for me and the kids. If you are really into the scientific aspect of PT you may want to consider working for a facility that offers the option to participate in research studies, which would allow for more moderated patient interaction. As dizzy88 said though, if PT is what you want to do, don't let this factor deter you.

 

[BlueBlue8]

New therapist, introvert here. Small talk comes very easily because you'll find that the patients simply want to talk about themselves. Talk about a TV show, a football team, etc, and you're good. At lunch, I have to keep to myself. I need that time to tune out. That's not to say that I will flat out ignore my co-workers, but in order for me to recharge I need some time to myself....and even on internships, I just needed to get away from everyone and would occasionally go eat lunch by myself. Some people may see this as rude, but I understand what I need to do to make sure I don't get irritated.

 

[pursue]

Thanks guys/gals for sharing. I'm definitely the type that would need to go eat by myself sometimes but overall I won't let this sway my decision. Thank you

 

[NewDPT31]

it will really just matter on a clinic by clinic basis and the flow of the team