ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the influence of specific factors-such as ambition, intelligence, self concept, family background, social and economic status, and reference groups-on levels of aspiration, choice, and achievement of individuals. Economists who have analyzed economic decision-making have traditionally assumed a rather high degree of rationality on the part of decision-makers. Research on levels of aspiration has been conducted primarily by sociologists. The fascination of sociologists with levels of aspiration stems from the long-standing preoccupation of sociologists with social stratification. A tentative, probing, searching attitude is also characteristic of the occupational preferences and aspirations of adolescents. Occupational decisions are made and remade many times by most adolescents before they actually enter the labor force. One of the most important career turning points is the decision to accept or reject a tempting offer to move to another place to take another position.
