American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

Which of the following is not an expected quality of a professional massage therapist?

1. A favorable professional image

2. A willingness to learn new skills and techniques

3. A focus on performing funded clinical research

4. An aptitude for working with their hands

The correct answer is: A focus on performing funded clinical research

A focus on performing funded clinical research is not typically considered an expected quality of a professional massage therapist. While research can play an important role in the broader field of massage therapy and may contribute to advancement in techniques and efficacy, it is not a core expectation for practicing therapists. Professional massage therapists are generally more focused on providing hands-on therapeutic services directly to clients, which requires qualities such as a favorable professional image, a willingness to learn new skills and techniques to enhance their practice, and an aptitude for working with their hands. These attributes contribute to client satisfaction, effective therapy sessions, and overall professionalism in the field. In contrast, involvement in funded clinical research may be more relevant to academic or research-based roles rather than the day-to-day responsibilities of a practicing massage therapist.