Gender Distribution in COAMFTE-Accredited Programs

Abstract

This study examines gender distribution of faculty and students within a sample of COAMFTE-accredited marriage and family therapy training programs. The researchers' aim is to fill the existing research gap in understanding how females are represented in marriage and family therapy academic programs. A survey questionnaire and publically-available information was used to collect quantitative data. Student population results show a considerably higher percentage of females at both the master's and doctoral levels. Faculty data indicate a higher percentage of females in part-time positions but an underrepresentation of females at the highest academic ranks. This study provides an initial but important inquiry into gender distribution trends in marriage and family therapy academia.