Degrees of division: Examining implicit and explicit bias towards nursing doctoral degrees (DNP and PhD).

BACKGROUND

The coexistence of the research-focused Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and the practice-focused Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) has created a complex intraprofessional dynamic. Despite calls for collaboration, relationships are often characterized by competition and role confusion.

PURPOSE: This study examined implicit and explicit biases of nurses toward PhD and DNP degrees to establish a baseline for understanding intraprofessional attitudes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional design was used (n = 635). Participants completed a demographic survey, explicit bias questions, and a web-based Implicit Association Test (IAT) measuring automatic associations between degree types and evaluative attributes.

DISCUSSION: Explicitly, 53.9% of participants reported "no bias," though PhD holders were significantly more likely to explicitly favor their own degree (p < .001). Implicitly, PhD holders exhibited implicit bias favoring PhDs (Mean D = -0.34), while DNP holders favored DNPs (Mean D = +0.23). Dual-degree holders showed no significant implicit bias. Regionally, the Northeast U.S. demonstrated stronger implicit bias against DNPs compared to the West (p = .02).

CONCLUSION

Significant implicit in-group biases exist, particularly among single-degree holders. These findings provide initial empirical evidence of a doctoral divide, suggesting that future interventions must target unconscious attitudes to foster the collaboration necessary for improving healthcare outcomes.