Sonography culture: Power and protectionism

MITCHELL, P. and NIGHTINGALE, Julie (2019). Sonography culture: Power and protectionism. Radiography.

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Abstract

Introduction The project aimed to explore the culture of sonography through the interpretation of the attitudes and opinions of a sample of practicing sonographers concerning the possible introduction of the graduate sonographer role. The participants' insights to their working world provided a new understanding of the professional culture of sonography and its impact on collective behaviour. Methods A qualitative study was undertaken using a constructivist methodology within a critical theory framework. A sample population was selected using theoretical purposive sampling. The interview transcripts were thematically analysed. Results Analysis identified main themes: protectionism, power, working world and career frameworks; these were interlinked with cross-cutting sub-themes of value, status and professional identity. The shortage of sonographers and increasing demand for ultrasound services created an imbalance that had put sonographers in a very powerful position; able to influence sonographer working practice, education and remuneration. The interpretations suggested that the initial power base of sonographers was achieved through a culture of occupational imperialism (delegation down). However, as the occupational group became established and a workforce crisis deepened, a culture of usurpation and protectionism had evolved within sonography. Conclusions The culture of sonography had a longstanding relationship with tradition and value that provided an emotional and political platform. An increasing self-awareness of power and status, due to the workforce shortage, had fostered a usurpatory and protectionist culture encouraging resistance to any workforce transformation.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2019.02.004
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Elements
Depositing User:	Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited:	26 Feb 2019 16:23
Last Modified:	17 Mar 2021 22:17
URI:	https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/24101

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