Gender Differences In The Anticipation Of Difficulties In Finding Employment Among University Students: A Botswana Study

Abstract

A study investigated gender differences in the anticipation of difficulties in finding employment among 232 final-year undergraduate students at the University of Botswana. Compared to their male counterparts, female students worried significantly more that they might not find a job (p=0.005) and that this might cause other problems in their life (p=0.017). Male students were more likely to believe that they did not have to worry about finding a job while still at university (p=0.003). Compared to male students, females were more likely to discuss their career plans with their friends (p=0.001) and parents (p=0.018). Both male and female students displayed a strong sense of external locus of control and causal attribution. They believed that “connections” with the “right people” would help them in getting a job. They blamed others, especially government, in case they could not get employment. The findings are discussed with regard to possible effects on students' job-searching behaviours.

Gender & Behaviour Vol. 6 (2) 2008: pp. 1960-1981