The Work-Life Interface of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in the United States

Abstract

This study explored registered dietitian nutritionists' (RDNs') work-life interface. A thematic analysis was conducted on survey responses from a national sample of RDNs (N = 1118). Three themes describe RDNs' work-life interface: motivators, adaptations and flexibility, and the price and rewards of work-life interface decisions. RDNs primarily identified their nonwork/family life as their priority. They discussed strategies used to adapt their work/career to create a workable lifestyle. RDNs also reflected on the price and rewards of their work-life interface decisions. Understanding motivations and managing the work-life interface may help amplify the contribution RDNs can make and retain practitioners in the workforce.