Assistant Professor

Abstract

This article focuses on the issues raised by employment in an academic setting during the first 3 years post-Ph.D. Specifically, identification with counseling psychology and opportunities for professional development are benefits of an academic appointment, while role overload and work tasks that lack natural closure are costs. The lack of opportunities for practice and the devaluation of practice in academic settings are also discussed, along with problems in implementing the scientist-practitioner model and obtaining postdoctoral hours toward licensure. Fears regarding incompetence, evaluation, and tenure are noted, and specific coping strategies are offered. Two personal issues are discussed: combining parenthood and work in a balanced life-style and being a woman in a male, and sometimes sexist, academic system.