Inappropriate Patient Sexual Behaviour Towards Female Chiropractors in South Africa: A Quantitative Analysis

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to survey chiropractors’ awareness and use of inappropriate patient sexual behavior (IPSB) protocol guidelines.

Method

This study used a 31-question online survey, distributed during the period of September to November 2022, to all registered female chiropractors in South Africa. The survey focused on how often and how severe IPSB incidents were, as well as practitioners’ knowledge and use of IPSB guidelines.

Results

Of the 508 chiropractors, 24.2% (123) responded. All respondents were aware of IPSB, with 59.8% reporting they had experienced it. More than half (52.2%) had encountered IPSB more than once, with mild cases being the most common, followed by moderate and severe cases. Respondents reported they felt more prepared for mild IPSB than for moderate or severe incidents. Many (40.9%) chose to ignore the behavior and continue treating the patient, while 34.1% gave a verbal warning before continuing care. A majority (95.7%) were concerned about IPSB, and 82.9% thought additional training could help them better handle these situations. While 62.6% knew about the IPSB protocol guidelines, 80.5% had not read them. Nevertheless, 83.3% said they had implemented the guidelines, and 66.7% found them helpful for educating chiropractors about IPSB.

Conclusion

The study found that 59.8% of female chiropractors in South Africa have experienced IPSB. Maintaining professional boundaries is a major concern for this group of chiropractors, and further research and professional guidelines may be necessary to address the impact comprehensively.