The Psychological Effects of Gender Stereotypes on Career Aspirations among University Students: A Review of Selected Literature

Abstract

The stigmatization and stereotyping of people on the basis of their gender continue to be a pervasive issue affecting various aspects of people’s lives: a career path and aspirations. Gender norms in universities and workplaces render conceptions of what is suitable or acceptable for men versus those for women, resulting in totally different developmental paths based on societal expectations. These stereotypes may affect university students’ views on their capabilities, interests, and career prospects, forming psychological obstacles that restrict their ambitions. The primary aim of this research is to investigate how gender stereotypes psychologically influence the career aspirations of university students, concentrating on the fundamental mechanisms that affect their decisions and self-image. This review examines an extensive array of literature, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative studies, to explore the impact of social expectations, family pressures, and institutional biases on students’ career choices. This study employed a qualitative research method, gathering data from secondary sources like academic journals, books, and reports. Through thematic analysis, significant themes like gender-based career decisions, self-belief, societal factors, and the impact of educational institutions in reinforcing stereotypes were recognized. The results indicated that gender stereotypes continue to significantly impact students’ career choices, with male students more often pursuing fields traditionally associated with masculinity, and female students leaning towards careers perceived as nurturing or service-oriented. Societal and family pressures, along with a shortage of gender-inclusive role models, were discovered to impede students’ ambitions for non-traditional careers. The research determines that tackling gender stereotypes via focused educational changes, mentorship programs, and awareness initiatives can motivate students to follow career paths that reflect their genuine interests, promoting enhanced gender equality in professional goals.