Analysis of Selected Socio-Political Influences Upon Career Decision-Making of College Freshman

• Main Author: Colton-Ewing, Priscilla
• Format: Others
• Published: ScholarWorks 1979
• Online Access: http://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/20; http://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1019&context=dissertations

This study was conducted to determine whether or not three specific socio-political events influenced freshmen students' career decision-making at Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, California during the academic years 1968-1974. The format of the study was established by three descriptive hypotheses: 1) Analyze data from student questionnaires and determine whether or not three specified socio-political events influenced a majority or more college freshmen in their career decision-making during the 1968-1974 academic years. The three socio-political events identified were: a) United States' withdrawal from military conflicts (Viet Nam) b) Development of the counter social and values cultures c) Acceleration of student political concerns 2) Analyze data from student questionnaires and determine whether or not a majority or more of university freshmen later changed their career decision-making after their initial choice. 3) Determine whether or not a majority or more of faculty members were similarly aware of freshmen opinions about the influences of socio-political events upon freshmen career decision-making. The study sample included 103 freshmen and 56 faculty members and was conducted during the fall, 1974. It was determined that 86 percent (86) of 103 students were affected by the acceleration of student political concerns. Eighty-four percent (84) of 103 students were affected by withdrawal from military conflicts (Viet Nam). Fifty-one percent (53) of 103 students were affected by the counter social and value culture. The conclusion was that 73 percent (75) students were affected by the impact of the identified socio-political concerns. Twenty-one of 53 faculty (37.5 percent) were not aware of the influence of the identified socio-political events upon freshmen career decision-making. Chapters I, II, and III presented the format, review of literature, and research design. Chapters IV and V established the findings and summary.