Factors Influencing the Occupational and Educational Plans and Pursuits of Nebraska Farm Boys

The primary purpose of this study was to contribute to an improvement in educational and occupational guidance of rural farm males in Nebraska. The specific objectives were (1) to describe the educational and occupational plans of farm boys, (2) to relate the theory of choice to occupational planning, (3) to relate occupational plans and actual occupations engaged in three years after high school graduation, (4) to appraise the relative importance of factors influencing educational and occupational plans, (5) to analyze the characteristics which differentiate farm boys relative to plans for agricultural careers and nonagricultural careers, and (6) to translate this information into “Hints for Guidance of Farm Boys.” Some of the conclusions of this study are: 1. More than one half of the rural farm high school graduates will either seek additional education or be in the military service three years following graduation. 2. One half of the rural farm boys actually will enter an institution of higher education. 3. Rural farm seniors in high school are aware of the obstacles to entry into an occupation. Advisor: James T. Horne