| The purpose of this study was to explore motivations that drive current Bachelor's of Art in Social Work (BASW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) students to pursue a career in social work, despite the long-standing stereotypes about social work being a "woman's profession." In addition, it explored the perceptions and experiences of men in the program and the workplace. Furthermore, it attempted to investigate the barriers that prevent most men from pursuing this area of study.Results from the 13 participants indicated that a majority of the men pursued social work as a result of an individual's influence. Differential treatment in the program and profession were revealed. Barriers that were perceived to deter men from the profession were its female-dominated occupational status, social stigma, low wages, and lack of awareness of the profession.Lastly, recommendations were made to assist educators with future recruitment of men into social work programs. |
