Influences on the Career Choice of Psychotherapists
Motivations and experiences relevant to the career choices of 56 clinical psychologists practicing psychotherapy were assessed and compared with those from a sample of 53 social psychologists. Clinical psychologists were more likely than social psychologists to have been influenced in their career selections by (a) experiences of psychological distress in themselves and in their families of origin, (b) desires to resolve personal problems, and (c) a wish to pursue opportunities for vocational achievement and professional advancement. However, most respondents did not view problematic histories as central to their choice of career, and the magnitude of difference between the two groups of professionals was small. Results illuminate reasons why individuals choose careers as psychotherapists. Implications for the training of therapists are also discussed.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- Clinical Psychology
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 1799 Other Psychology and Cognitive Sciences
- 1701 Psychology
Citation
Published In
DOI
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Related Subject Headings
- Clinical Psychology
- 5203 Clinical and health psychology
- 5201 Applied and developmental psychology
- 1799 Other Psychology and Cognitive Sciences
- 1701 Psychology