Much attention has been focused on the attractions of independent social work practice and the motivations of individuals who choose to enter private practice on either a part-time or full-time basis. The author presents the findings of a study of a national sample of social workers eligible by their training and experience to engage in private practice but who for various reasons chose not to do so. Their reasons for not entering private practice are examined in light of previous research on the attractions of private practice as well as current challenges of private practice. The implications of these findings for structuring rewarding work experiences in agency contexts are discussed.
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