Determinants of Occupational Role Innovation Among College Women¹

Abstract

This study of 200 senior college women investigates the relationship between non‐sextypical occupational choices (Role Innovation) and background, personality, and college experience. Role Innovators are more autonomous, individualistic, and motivated by internally imposed demands to perform to capacity. Rather than cross‐sex identification, there is some evidence of role modeling of more educated working mothers. The Role Innovators' career commitment is greater, yet they have as many romantic and friendship relationships with men as do Traditionais. Faculty and female college friends provide role support, but a supportive boyfriend may be more important at this stage. A four‐part typology is suggested in which role modeling and the type of maternal model are related to motivational patterns and occupational choice.