ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the current context, definitions of key terms, understanding professions, being and becoming, practice, reflection, and social justice. It sets the scene for professionals. Mapping and defining what being a professional encompasses and what it excludes will provide the contours, parameters, shape, form, function and purpose to professions. The different views of professions historically and from different disciplines will define professionals. Becoming a professional is a timely and necessary discussion for all those involved in health, social care and social professions, particularly in uncertain times and in an age of austerity with savage public sector cuts to services. The chapter discusses the competency and capability frameworks for becoming a professional It considers the contested nature of professionalism and the contextual tensions between rational instrumental approaches and an ethos of professionality, along with the possibilities, demands and increase in interprofessional working.
