The role of legitimation in the professional socialization of second-year undergraduate athletic training students.
BACKGROUND
Professional socialization during formal educational preparation can help students learn professional roles and can lead to improved organizational socialization as students emerge as members of the occupation's culture. Professional socialization research in athletic training is limited.


OBJECTIVE
To present the role of legitimation and how it influences the professional socialization of second-year athletic training students.


METHODS
Modified constructivist grounded theory and case study methods were used for this qualitative study.


METHODS
An accredited undergraduate athletic training education program.


METHODS
Twelve second-year students were selected purposively. The primary sample group (n = 4) was selected according to theoretical sampling guidelines. The remaining students made up the cohort sample (n = 8). Theoretically relevant data were gathered from 14 clinical instructors to clarify emergent student data.


METHODS
Data collection included document examination, observations, and interviews during 1 academic semester. Data were collected and analyzed through constant comparative analysis. Data triangulation, member checking, and peer-review strategies were used to ensure trustworthiness.


RESULTS
Legitimation from various socializing agents initiated professional socialization. Students viewed trust and team membership as rewards for role fulfillment.


CONCLUSIONS
My findings are consistent with the socialization literature that shows how learning a social or professional role, using rewards to facilitate role performance, and building trusting relationships with socializing agents are important aspects of legitimation and, ultimately, professional socialization.
Klossner
Joanne
J
Indiana University, Smith Research Center, Bloomington, IN 47408, USA. jklossne@indiana.edu
D000328:Adult; D004517:Education, Professional; D004521:Educational Measurement; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D024382:Professional Role; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012951:Socialization; D000078329:Workforce