THE EFFECT OF GENDER STEREOTYPING ON CAREER CHOICE AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

THE EFFECT OF GENDER STEREOTYPING ON CAREER CHOICE AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
 
ABSTRACT
This study was about the effects of gender stereotyping on career choice among secondary school students in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The study aimed at examining the knowledge of career requirements among secondary school students, as well as identifying behaviours associated with masculine and feminine gender. It was also examining the tasks associated with male and female gender. Data and other information on the study were collected from 300 form four students. The study employed primary and secondary methods of data collections. The data were analysed using cross tabulation and presented through the use of frequencies and percentages of respondents.  The study found that respondents were knowledgeable enough about career choice requirements among form four students. They were able to identify subjects related to different professions. It was further found that gender differences in career choices among secondary school students were significant. While boys demonstrated hard work, girls demonstrated soft works. Moreover, it was found that traditional beliefs or culture had a great impact to career choices among boys and girls.  The study recommends that since some students did not differentiate compulsory subjects from combinations subjects, education is needed to create awareness on this. There should be units in schools and government institution dealing with guidance and counseling for students. Moreover, gender education is needed in order to make boys and girls know themselves and therefore make their career choices without considering their cultural made up behaviours. Again, the study recommends that society should not label some works for a particular sex.