Leadership Competency Framework for Physical Therapists (LCF-PT): Examining Content Validity

Introduction. Leadership is an essential, yet complex concept. The complexity has resulted in a diverse set of competencies and conceptual frameworks. Of these frameworks, few are validated. In the United States, no leadership frameworks specific to physical therapy have undergone a content validity process. Review of Literature. The lack of validation of leadership frameworks prompts questions about the understanding of the domain of leadership and its unique competencies. In physical therapy, there was an evidence-based published set of leadership competencies, referred to as knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) published in 2020. In 2021, the Leadership Competency Framework (LCF-PT) organized these KSAs into thematic clusters using ecological systems theory. This study completes the judgment phase of the content validity process by evaluating the LCF-PT cluster terms, definitions, and KSA placement within clusters. Subjects. PTs with formal training or experience in leadership roles. Methods. An electronic survey assessed the essentialness and utility of the clusters and placement of KSAs within clusters for usability. Analysis involved concurrent qualitative comment reviews and quantitative assessments via content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR) calculations. Results. Seventy-six individuals with a mix of leadership training participated in the study. The overall LCF-PT CVI was 0.88. CVRs of 11 clusters ranged 0.81–1.0, and CVRs of KSAs ranged 0.57–1.0. This validation process resulted in 7 cluster enhancements and movement of 2 KSAs across clusters. Discussion. The study supports the content validity of the LCF-PT and enhances the credibility and usability of this conceptual framework. It also moves discussions forward on how to group leadership KSAs, considering context, situation, and environmental complexities. Conclusion. This validation is a pivotal advancement to describe leadership as a distinct domain of competence in physical therapist education and practice. It can also serve as a conceptual guide for PTs seeking leadership development across a continuum of practice.