Factors related to the traditionalism of career choice

Wiseman, Tom W. (1982) Factors related to the traditionalism of career choice. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This study attempted to determine factors associated with traditional or non-traditional aspirations and expectations of Newfoundland high school youth. The sample consisted of 2584 students (1221 males and 1363 females) from twenty-four schools. Data from grades nine through eleven were gathered using a survey type of questionnaire and principal analysis was performed using chi-square analysis, rejecting the null hypothesis at the .05 level of significance. -- The theoretical constructs of the research were based on Krumboltz's (1975) social learning theory of career decision making and instruments were designed to analyze perceived influencing factors. The instruments gathered data on the occupational and educational aspirations and plans of youth, the reasons for these plans, the nature of interest in the career, information about the job search conducted by the student, work experience, and parental occupations. Questions were also asked about birth order, number of siblings, physical disabilities, interests and talents, parental educational levels, perception of ability to finance education, perception of knowledge of educational institutions, perception of parent attitudes, educational ability, success criteria and peer influence. -- Many factors, such as role models, family background, academic experience, were determined to be associated with traditional or non-traditional career choice. Also some factors were associated with both traditional and non-traditional career choice, although not always in the inverse. -- Recommendations for practice dealt with personalizing the career education process, provisions of information, group process, and dealing with failure. Recommendations for research considered the nature of perceived options and program design.

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