The job search in community psychology: a survey of recent graduates.

Abstract

Several studies have examined the employment status of those who identify themselves as community psychologists (Bachman, Smith, & Jason, 1980; Skotko, 1980). However, little empirical research has been conducted examining the transition from the university to the employment setting for graduates of community psychology programs. A study of one master 's level program found graduates to be highly competitive in finding employment. Graduates tended to obtain positions as administrators, to be employed in nontraditional (i.e., nonmental health) human service agencies, and, for the most part, to have position titles that did not include the designation psychologist (Paelet, 1978). At the Austin Conference students involved in communi ty psychology training programs voiced concern regarding future employment opportunities in the field (Meyer, 1977). They argued that these issues were of significant concern and timeliness to justify attention, and that basic information would also provide current and prospective graduate students guidelines in job hunting. The purpose of this investigation is to provide such information to better understand the job search for new community psychologists. In a previous study we examined issues of skill training among recent graduates of master's