Opting In and Out: A Qualitative Study Exploring Career Break Experiences of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists

Background Since 2002, an average of 17.5% of registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) have reported being out of the paid dietetics workforce, and approximately half of those report intention to return. With the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' focus on expanding workforce demand and capacity, understanding why and how dietitians opt in and out of the dietetics workforce may provide insights into how to potentially reduce the number of career breaks or expedite and enhance the reentry process. Objective To explore the lived experiences and perspectives of dietitians who were taking (with intention to return) or had taken a career break and returned to the paid dietetics' workforce. Design A qualitative study with semistructured interviews was conducted. Participants/setting Participants (n = 22) were recruited through purposive sampling over social media. They were required to be credentialed as RDNs, reside in the United States, and have either previously or currently (with intent to return) taken a break from the dietetics workforce. Interviews were conducted using Zoom videoconferencing technology during September 2021. Data Analysis Data were analyzed using a Coding Reliability Thematic Analysis approach. Results The data are summarized in four themes: (1) motivations to leave and return, (2) staying connected with dietetics, (3) preparing to return and returning to the dietetics workforce, and (4) desired resources for career breaks and reentry. Conclusions Understanding the experiences of dietitians who take career breaks may help inform career reentry and help the profession meet the current and future workforce demand.