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Social Comparison and Contextual Influences on Science Career Expectations: Exploring Gender Differences Among Adolescents (Poster 14)

Sat, April 26, 9:50 to 11:20am MDT (9:50 to 11:20am MDT), The Colorado Convention Center, Floor: Exhibit Hall Level, Exhibit Hall F - Poster Session

Abstract

Guided by the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), extensive research has focused on cognitive-personal variables and proximal environments, yet the impact of distal contexts remains underexplored. This study leveraged data from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 to investigate how social comparison affected boys' and girls' STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) career expectations. Findings indicated a decline in adolescents' expectations for careers in science, engineering, and health-related professions, coupled with an increase in information and communications technology (ICT) careers. Academically competent students were more likely to aspire to STEM careers in lower-achieving economies, particularly girls. Additionally, students from advantaged backgrounds exhibited higher STEM career expectations in less-developed economies with greater SES disparities, with boys being more influenced.

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