Attributes, Experiences, and Career Productivity of Successful Social Work Scholars

Abstract

This study was conducted to learn more about the attributes, experiences, and scholarly contributions of successful social work scholars. The most frequently published authors (n = 261) in 18 social work journals over an entire decade were selected to participate in a mail survey. The response rate was exceptional (91 percent). Although the scholars reported working long hours over the course of their careers, they also enjoyed their work, experienced support for their scholarship at home and in the workplace, had many opportunities for occupational mobility, and reported relatively high salaries. Although they each averaged more than 26 career publications in professional journals, two original books, and almost seven book chapters, the scholars devoted less than one-third of their professional time to research and scholarly activities.