Gendered Patterns of Career Aspirations of Hispanic Youth From Middle to High School

• In Event: Poster Session 15
  In Poster Session: Human Development 2

Abstract

Hispanic youth—the nation’s largest minority population—exhibit some of the lowest educational attainment and STEM career participation. To better understand the dynamics potentially related to this issue, more needs to be known about Hispanic youth’s occupational choices and aspirations. Accordingly, the current study of 6,432 Hispanic youth (a) documented stability and changes in their career aspirations from middle school through high school, and b) examined gender differences. Results showed a strong representation and changes in certain types of occupations (e.g., healthcare, arts, entertainment and sports occupations) and as expected, increasing diversification of occupational aspirations in high school. In addition, we identified persistent gender differences that have important implications for promoting STEM aspirations and subsequent career choices.

Authors

• Nayssan Safavian, University of California - Irvine

• Anna-Lena Dicke, University of California, Irvine

• Stuart A. Karabenick, University of Michigan

• Jacquelynne Eccles, University of California - Irvine

• AnneMarie M. Conley, University of California - Irvine