Perspectives on diagnostic radiographers’ motivation for becoming researchers: A qualitative focus group study

Introduction

This paper presents motivational factors to engage, start a research project and pursue a research career. The study aimed to investigate radiographer's motivation for engaging in research.

Methods

Eight radiographers from Denmark with experience in research were interviewed in a 2-h focus group interview in October 2023. This qualitative approach was selected to allow the participants to discuss their opinions and values. The discussions were audio recorded and transcribed before the thematic analysis was performed.

Results

The analysis revealed six main themes: the importance of radiographic research, the importance of radiographers' participation in research, research radiographers’ motivation, funding and participation in research projects, demotivation and difficulties, and facilitating radiographic research in the future.

Conclusion

The participants were motivated by different factors. The participants found both research in radiography and radiographers’ participation in research-related activities important, although they found lack of support from managers, funding, and time to be demotivational factors.

Implication for practice

This study contributes to the limited literature on motivational factors for becoming a researcher within radiography.