An exploration of the factors influencing the career choice of male trainee clinical psychologists: a Q methodological study

The profession of clinical psychology has been criticised for not having a diverse workforce. Men are under represented and this has been acknowledged as a concern. However, there has been very little research or literature on this area. Many factors influence an individual's decision to choose a career and the profession needs to be aware of these factors if access is to be widened and more men encouraged to enter. In the present study, Q methodology was used to explore how male trainee clinical psychologists in the United Kingdom conceptualise a career in clinical psychology. This method encouraged participants to reflect on the positive and negative aspects of clinical psychology that influenced their career choice. Analysis of the participants' statement configurations produced eight accounts about a career in clinical psychology, of which seven are discussed. These accounts highlighted a number of themes that may impact on the decisions men make to enter clinical psychology, including interest and value, job security, challenges, power and status, previous information and knowledge, family influence and cultural expectations. The implications of these themes for male recruitment are discussed. V