Abstract
An overview of the careers of a selected group of sociologists who left academia is presented. Qualitative interviews with 11 female and five male former academic sociologists were conducted. It was found that research participants entered sociology as postgraduate students by chance, being influenced by sociology lecturers and/or because of an interest in the subject. After being appointed in academic positions, some experienced a lack of support from senior academics, and even discrimination and unfair treatment. The main reasons given for exiting an academic career include experiences of discrimination, repeatedly being offered contract academic positions, wanting to pursue a related career outside of academia, or the belief that a new career would enhance personal development. Insights from the expectancy theory and the anchor theory illuminate their reasons for leaving an academic career. After leaving academia, research and writing skills as well as an understanding of interpersonal dynamics (as taught in sociology) were specifically valued. If sociologists leave academia, a closer relationship between the sociology practised in academic circles and the application of sociology in other sectors of society is suggested. Yet, negative aspects highlighted in the article, such as discrimination against certain participants, are stumbling blocks for fostering such closer relationships.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 60-78 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Journal | South African Review of Sociology |
| Volume | 42 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Oct 2011 |
Keywords
- South Africa
- academic career
- higher education
- sociology
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Social Sciences
