Voices from Social Work Graduates in China: Reasons for Not Choosing Social Work as a Career

Although previous studies have addressed turnover issues after being a social worker, this study identifies factors that may block initial entry to the profession. Using a semistructural interview method with 20 BSW graduates, the researchers transcribed the reasons for BSW graduates not entering a career in social work. Through element-centered content analysis, 76 reasons were sorted into nine categories: (1) income insufficient for basic needs, (2) unclear future, (3) no commitment to social work, (4) social work jobs could be taken by other professionals, (5) difficulties in actualizing proclaimed value, (6) personally unable to apply skills, (7) social exclusion due to nonresident status, (8) hard/stressful work, and (9) not supported by peers and family. Through person-centered content analysis, most respondents (90 percent) reported multiple reasons (M = 3.8) supporting their decision, offering their rational thought processes culminating in the decision not to enter social work. Recommendations for developing a national survey, engaging social workers in preparing BSW students for graduation, and modifying student admissions strategies are discussed.