CIRCUMSCRIBING VOCATIONAL ASPIRATIONS IN JUNIOR-HIGH-SCHOOL

The ways in which 8th graders systematically organize vocational aspirations within circumscribed attitudinal boundaries were studied. Concerns about math/science career development for women are embedded within a broader conceptual framework inclusive of major occupational groupings. Participants were 112 8th graders. Results replicate Gottfredson's (1981) cognitive map of vocational aspirations and expand the circumscription part of her theory. Gender differences were examined in relation to self-efficacy judgments, vocational interests, and expectations for occupational attainment across a Sex Type x Prestige Level occupational map. Assertiveness ratings predicted self-efficacy judgments and interest for science careers but were unrelated to gender. Emotional expressiveness ratings were strongly related to gender and negatively predicted expectations for attaining a science career. Higher emotional expressiveness scores predicted greater interest in lower prestige and traditionally female careers.