Exploring the Role of Gender Stereotypes, Career Aspirations, and Self-Efficacy Among Higher Education Students in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

This study examined the perceptions of gender stereotypes, career aspirations, and self-efficacy of 300 higher education students in Punjab, Pakistan. Employing a quantitative survey design, data were collected via a structured questionnaire with validated scales for gender stereotypes, career aspirations, and self-efficacy, demonstrating high reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.91). The objectives of the study were: 1) To examine the prevalence of gender stereotypes among higher education students in Punjab, Pakistan, in relation to their perceptions of professional roles. 2) To assess the career aspirations of higher education students in relation to gendered expectations. 3) To measure the level of self-efficacy among higher education students in relation to their career development. Descriptive data indicated a sharp consciousness of gender stereotypes, as 78-93 per cent of the participants asserted gender stereotypes statements that shed light on society, such as exclusion of women by male-dominated careers and questioning of men in female-dominated careers. There were also high career aspirations among the participants, indicated by the 86-94 per cent agreement on goal-setting and belief in pursuing non-traditional careers, as well as strong self-efficacy, indicated by the 87-95 per cent agreement on resilience and motivation, and mean scores reflecting moderate to high levels of the measured variables. These findings highlighted the need to implement gender-specific gender-equity interventions in Pakistani higher education to reduce imbalances and promote the inclusive establishment of career patterns.