OVERVIEW

A great deal of research has been conducted with children on the topic of "what they want to be when they grow up." The findings have sparked an interest in a developmental conception of career aspirations. This conception follows that adult career interests are influenced by childhood career formations, and that children’s abilities to formulate these aspirations evolve through developmental stages beginning at an early age. The majority of the research thus far has focused on the influences of gender, ethnic group, and social class. Until this time, no research has linked nuclear fears and career aspirations. Believing this to be a significant insight, this essay attempts to link and interpret literature concerning the psychological impact of the nuclear threat with studies on young persons’ career aspirations.

DESIGN

The author reconsiders previously developed career models in the light of the implications of nuclear threat literature. Gottfriedson’s and Ginzburg’s theories serve as conceptual "handles" to integrate these two traditionally separate subject areas. (p. 56)

FINDINGS

The percentage of worriers in the nuclear threat studies points to a definite fear of nuclear war. The possibility of such a war may be "the most challenging threat ever faced by our species." (p. 45) Today’s youth are aware of this danger, and the impact on a generation of children who harbor such worries may affect youthful aspiration when considered in conjunction with the developmental stage. One’s perception of the future clearly plays an important role in this development.

CONCLUSION

Although expressing the most fear, those who were aware and able to communicate reservations in this nuclear age displayed greater optimism. Communication is thus key; confronting an issue directly and realistically allows children to envision their futures. Although a definite correlation cannot be made, the withdrawal of hope and abandonment of meaning caused by the looming threat of nuclear war must be considered as a factor in the development of career aspirations; it deserves further attention. In addition to further research, a good step would entail discussion or attention to the subject.

CRITIQUE AND EVALUATION

As a first look at this issue, the study is unable to suggest a concrete link between these two areas. However, considering the impact of nuclear threat is necessary for understanding its implications, particularly on the career aspirations of today’s youth.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION

1. What do you want to be when you grow up?
2. What might stop you from achieving your future goals?
3. Is war ever justified or necessary?
4. How does the threat of nuclear war affect your future?
5. How can you work toward prevention and peace?
6. What is your greatest fear (war, your own death, the divorce or death of your parents, AIDS, pollution)?
7. What does the media tell you about war? What do your parents believe? What do your teachers think? How do you feel?

IMPLICATIONS

• The age in which we live presents a unique threat to the possibility of a nuclear war. Young people are aware and affected by this danger. The career guidance practice must consider its impact on the development of children’s career aspirations.
• Further research must be done to determine the relationship between the threat of war and the development of career aspirations in youth.
• Educators and other concerned adults can begin by "permitting fears to be experienced and expressed." (p. 58) Questions for thoughtful personal reflection and group discussion can begin this process.
• With nuclear war, death seems more imminent. What does this mean to young people?

Brooke Unger cCYS