Abstract
Nursing homes (NHs) are a primary setting for gerontological social work; yet, little is known about social workers' career interest relative to this setting. This article reports the findings of an online survey of social work students (177 US and 91 Canadian) that sought to identify personal characteristics and beliefs that influence NH employment intentions. Students who were enrolled in bachelors programs, lacked previous practice experience, and had already had a NH field placement or wanted this experience were more likely to express employment intent. The implications of these findings for social work education and research are discussed.
The principal investigator thanks the students that participated in this research and expresses her gratitude to the social work faculty members that facilitated communication with students on my behalf. Thanks also to Derek Stepp (AGHE), Dr. Sherry Cummings (AGE-SW), and Dr. Peter Donahue (NICE) for their administrative assistance.