The role of time perspective in the career choice of secondary school pupils

Abstract

Due to the fact that many of the secondary school pupils who experience difficulty in choosing a career, also appear to have problems with their time perspective, an investigation into the possible link between these concepts was undertaken. A literature study was done where the major dimensions of time perspective were identified continuity/directionality and locus of control; optimism/pessimism; structure. Analyses were done on the principal factors influencing time perspective and career choice. A reliable measuring instrument was developed in order to measure the secondary school pupil's time perspective. The results of the empirical investigation indicated that time perspective does play a significant role in the career choice of secondary school pupils. Gender and intellectual potential do not appear to have a significant bearing on time perspective. The educational implications of the findings are discussed, and guidelines regarding methods of improving a child's time perspective are given to both teachers and parents.