Why Social Workers Leave the Profession: Understanding the Profession and Workforce

Abstract

This study addressed two research questions relating to social workers currently working and those who have left the profession. Nearly 44% left or were considering leaving social work. Findings suggest salary and caretaking effected retention and career reentry. The implications for social work education and the profession require longitudinal research.

Keywords:

• career reentry
• labor force
• retention
• social work education
• workforce