roots of future occupations in childhood: a review of the literature on girls and careers

A literature review indicates that new careers for the future will encompass technological skills. Unfortunately, most of these career areas have been stereotypically assigned to the M domain. Girls form ideas concerning sex-appropriate roles during early childhood. Career aspirations are closely tied to SES & the availability of role models, even though the achievement potential of girls is at least equal to that of boys. The major implications extracted from the literature are: (1) development of interests in nontraditional occupational areas is necessary for personal & economic success of young women; (2) the attitudes of parents, teachers, & other relevant adults are important in determining girls' perceptions of acceptable career goals; & (3) girls who experience an atmosphere in which their successes are recognized as due to ability are likely to select careers based upon their abilities & preferences. Suggestions for programs are offered. 72 References. AA.