What Inhibits Achievement and Career Motivation in Women? Why Women Contribute Less to the Humanities, Arts, and Sciences

In a review of research, inhibited career and achievement motivation in women is analyzed and a humanistic goal for both sexes is proposed. The author believes that women have not caught up with the opportunities available to them to contribute to society through their careers. They do not contribute as much as men do to the humanities, arts, and sciences, and they do not contribute commensurate with their talents and potential. Factors related to inhibited career and achievement motivation include reduction in academic self-confidence, fear of success, vicarious achievement motivation, home-career conflict, work discrimination, low risk-taking behavior, and sex-role orientation. The author is presently studying the potency of these factors to predict achievement and career motivation in various samples of women. Results might be useful in developing diagnostic measures to prescribe change strategies in cases where low motivation is identified. A humanistic goal of sex-free roles is proposed, based on bicultural school curriculum, career guidance in schools, and individual open-mindedness toward shared responsibilities. (AV)