Examining the Relationship Between Dietitians’ Lifelong Learning Tendencies and Their Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Objectives: Our study aimed to examine the relationship between lifelong learning tendencies and job satisfaction of dietitians who provide consultancy to individuals by using their knowledge and skills to ensure their health. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between 15.06.2024 and 15.10.2024 with actively working dietitians aged 22-65. Data were collected from 300 dietitians via an online survey. The Lifelong Learning Competency Scale (LLCS) is used to determine their perceptions of competence towards the lifelong learning approach. The Minnesota Job Satisfaction Scale (MSQ) included questions about the sub-factors of internal and external satisfaction and job satisfaction. Results: The study included 91.0% women and 9.0% men. Dietitians working in clinics had higher scores for both job satisfaction and lifelong learning tendencies (p<0.05). In terms of total job satisfaction score, the average of private sector employees is significantly higher than public employees (p<0.001). A correlation was also found between the total scores and sub-dimensions of MSQ and LLCS (p<0.001). While factors such as age, professional experience, and field of study did not have a significant effect on job satisfaction, working in the private sector (p<0.05), and lifelong learning tendency showed a significant relationship (p<0.001). Conclusion: Clinical dietitian job satisfaction is positively affected by both the tendency for lifelong learning and working in the private sector is associated with greater job satisfaction. It would be useful to develop strategies to increase the satisfaction of dietitians working in areas such as polyclinics and refectories or in the public sector.

Keywords

• dietitians
• job satisfaction
• lifelong learning

References

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