Exploring Student Perspectives of the Dietetics Profession Using a Professional Socialization Lens

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to explore student perspectives of the dietetics profession using a professional socialization lens. Methods: We conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews, virtually or by phone, with 25 dietetic undergraduate/graduate students or interns in 2020/21. Transcripts were thematically analyzed. Results: All participants identified as female, averaged 25 years old at the time of the interviews, and were in different stages of their education. Two themes captured their perspectives of the profession: dietitians have technical expertise and professional identities are evolving. Technical expertise was focused on scientific understandings of how individuals consume and utilize food, and how (mostly Western) food should be prepared for safety and maximum nutrition. Participants perceived dietetics as a white, feminized profession with dietitians’ role to aid in weight loss; participants actively sought to resist these stereotypes, notably through social media. Conclusions: While holding technical expertise continues to be embedded as a key component of dietetics identity, student professional socialization is also being shaped by social media, racial justice, and body positivity movements. This socialization process is likely to influence changes to the profession as students enter practice.