Utilization of three-dimensional framework theory in identifying the motivational factors for selecting a postgraduate dental specialty-A pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: Three-dimensional framework theory classifies factors influencing career selection into intrinsic, extrinsic, and interpersonal dimensions. The objectives of this pilot research were to assess the psychometric properties of a scale encompassing factors affecting post-graduation specialty selection according to three-dimensional framework theory and identify motivational factors that affect dental students' and interns' choice of post-graduation specialty. METHODOLOGY: A closed-ended self-structured research instrument consisting of a list of 19 factors was presented to dental students and dental interns at Margalla Dental College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and Islamic International Dental College, Islamabad, Pakistan (n = 235). Exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach-alpha (alpha) were used to assess the construct validity and reliability (internal consistency) of the scale respectively. Descriptive analysis and non-parametric tests were used for data analysis with a level of significance at </=0.05. RESULTS: A 3-factor solution with 11 items was stabilized. Cronbach-alpha of the pilot study turned out to be 0.72. With a response rate of 92.15%, the most common motivational factor affecting post-graduation specialty selection was the Intrinsic factor "personnel joy and motivation to work hard." Dental interns and male participants were more likely to select the post-graduation specialty due to intrinsic motivational factors (p < 0.05). Inspiration from the family member and supporting the family also influenced male participants and interns respectively (p < 0.05). Female participants preferred to choose a less saturated field (p < 0.05). A medium positive statistically significant correlation was observed between the interpersonal motivational factor "inspiration by a teacher" and the choice of "basic sciences" as a post-graduation specialty (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: This pilot study resulted in the development of a scale with a 3-factor solution stabilized at 11 items. The internal consistency of the scale turned out to be 0.72. Oral and maxillofacial surgery was the first choice of post-graduation chosen by 35.5% of the respondents. Fellowship was chosen as the preferred type of post-graduation by 46% of the respondents. Irrespective of gender and designation, the top most influential factor, chosen by 88.5% of the respondents, was the intrinsic motivational factor "personal joy and motivation to work hard."