A ten-year longitudinal study of the career development of students: Summary findings

This article summarizes the principal findings of a 10-year longitudinal study of the career development experienced by a sample of students. Beginning with 208 second graders, data were collected 6 times, concluding when the students were in the 12th grade. Principal variables measured included occupational aspirations and expectations, gender role beliefs, out-of-school activities, parental involvement in career awareness, and work experience. Concepts from L. Gottfredson's (1981) circumscription theory and the social cognitive model were tested and supported. Implications for career education are presented.