Date Approved
6-22-1995
Embargo Period
9-13-2016
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.S. in Teaching
Department
Interdisciplinary and Inclusive Education
College
College of Education
Advisor
Robinson, Randall S.
Subject(s)
Sex differences (Psychology); Sex role--United States; Sexual division of labor; Vocational guidance
Disciplines
Elementary Education and Teaching
Abstract
This study was designed to determine if students in a suburban, southern New Jersey elementary school would have gender-biased attitudes concerning appropriate roles and career aspirations for males and females.
A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 100 students from a total population of 74 fourth grade students and 58 fifth grade students from one school in a southern New Jersey suburban school district. Items on the questionnaire included a list of occupations as well as questions regarding gender and careers.
The hypothesis was not supported because it was found that most of the students did not possess a gender-biased attitude. Of the 100 students who participated in the study, 65 achieved a score of 46 or below, indicating non-biased attitudes of careers and gender. Thirty-five students achieved a score of 48 or above, which indicated a biased attitude. Additionally, the second hypothesis was supported in part and unsupported in part. The ratios of biased girls to non-biased girls and of biased boys to non-biased boys were about equal at 2:3 for each. However, it was found that the girls and boys were equally unbiased, rather than biased as the hypothesis predicted.
Recommended Citation
Sweeten, Valerie B., "Attitudes of fourth and fifth grade students toward gender and careers" (1995). Theses and Dissertations. 2292.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/2292
