Factor Leading to Vocational Preferences of Young Adults

Abstract

The study aimed at determining the factors that lead to vocational preferences of young adults in Pakistan. Factors were derived from a literature review and general feedback collected by the researchers; they were sorted into four major clusters: personal, familial and social factors, and work values. Following this, a customized semi quantitative questionnaire was designed and administered to explore the factors; MBTI was used to determine the personality types. Data was collected on a sample of 100 (25 males and 25 females from each: Matriculation and Cambridge system of education) students falling between the age ranges 13-18 years. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that peer pressure (social factors), education system, planned field of study and favorite subject (personal factors) have an association with the vocational preference. There was no association between the sub factors falling under the familial factors and work values and the vocational preference. Certain degree of inconsistency between the literature review and statistical analysis suggests the possibility of a change in trend and impact of cultural differences. Implications for readers are discussed along with recommendation for future research.