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1 - Peer influences on gender differences in educational aspiration and attainment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 October 2014

By
Richard A. Fabes ,
Sarah Hayford ,
Erin Pahlke ,
Carlos Santos ,
Kristina Zosuls ,
Carol Lynn Martin  and
Laura D. Hanish
Edited by
Ingrid Schoon  and
Jacquelynne S. Eccles
Richard A. Fabes
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Sarah Hayford
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Erin Pahlke
Affiliation:
Whitman College
Carlos Santos
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Kristina Zosuls
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Carol Lynn Martin
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Laura D. Hanish
Affiliation:
Arizona State University
Ingrid Schoon
Affiliation:
Institute of Education, University of London
Jacquelynne S. Eccles
Affiliation:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Summary

Abstract

A considerable amount of research has documented that the career and academic aspirations and choices of children and adolescents are gender-typed. In general, boys and girls have different career aspirations and career choices, although girls are more flexible in their choices. The purpose of our chapter is to highlight a relatively under-represented source of influence on the development of gendered career aspirations and attainment: the role of peers and peer-related processes. In this chapter, we begin with an overview of key gender gaps in educational-related behaviors, attitudes, and goals. We then discuss some of the literature and guiding theory on peer influences that contribute to educational aspirations and achievement and how this body of research has often overlooked gender differences. We also present new evidence from preschool and elementary school children that identifies some of the gender-based influences peers have on educational and occupational achievement, interests, and attainment. We argue that the gender-segregated nature of children’s peer interactions that develops across childhood and adolescence sets the stage for many of the gender differences in attitudes, beliefs, motivations, and behaviors that contribute to gender differences in aspirations and choices.

Type
Chapter
Information
Gender Differences in Aspirations and Attainment
A Life Course Perspective
 , pp. 29 - 52
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2014

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