An economic analysis of identity and career choice
By: by Maria Knoth Humlum, Kristin J. Kleinjans, Helena Skyt Nielsen
Contributors: Kleinjans, Kristin J.
Series: Discussion paper -- no. 3120; Discussion paper (Forschungsinstitut zur Zukunft der Arbeit : Online) -- no. 3120
Publisher: IZA
Published: 2007
Place of publication: Bonn, Germany
Language: eng
Format: Electronic resource
Subjects: Vocational guidance; Identity (Psychology)
Description: "Standard economic models which focus on pecuniary payoffs cannot explain why there are highly able individuals who choose careers with low pecuniary returns. Therefore, financial incentives are unlikely to be effective in influencing career choices of these individuals. Based on Akerlof and Kranton (2000), we consider a model of career choice and identity where individuals derive non-pecuniary identity payoffs. Using factor analysis on a range of attitude questions, we find two factors related to identity (career orientation and social orientation), which are important for educational choices. The implication is that policymakers and institutions of higher education need to focus on identity related issues rather than just improved financial incentives if they aim at attracting the high ability youth to occupations with excess demand for labor"--Forschungsinstitut zur Zukunft der Arbeit web site.
Notes: Title from PDF file as viewed on 10/19/2007.

Includes bibliographical references.

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Mode of access: World Wide Web.