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Inter-identity threats and opportunities shaping professional influence for the Allied Health Profession (AHP) healthcare workforce: a study of identity paradox

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper extends our understanding of complexities in professional identity within healthcare by exploring a diverse group, UK allied health professionals (AHPs) working in clinical settings in public healthcare. Through qualitative thematic enquiry, we harness identity theory to highlight the threats and opportunities facing this workforce who contend with a multiplicity of identities. AHPs face an identity paradox, insofar as they hold both singular and collective professional identities that shift and change as they interact with different identity expectations within their work environment. We explore the impact of inter-identity threats and opportunities upon AHPs' professional identity, examining their impact upon AHPs' capacity to address and resolve ever-increasing system healthcare challenges. Our contribution presents a process-oriented model that highlights the importance of inter-identity dynamics, showing the interconnectedness of AHP identity with a range of detrimental outcomes that hinder the contribution of these professions and perpetuate existing difficulties.

Source: Social Science & Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118638

Authors: Sarah E Crozier, Carol Atkinson, Mike Bresnen, Peter Goodwin

Institution: Manchester Metropolitan University

Language: English

Topic: Management and Organizational Studies

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,800