The Integration of Personality, Aptitude, And Vocational Interest Among Girl Students: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

In the journey of personal and professional growth, the transition from secondary school to higher education or the workforce marks a significant milestone for every individual. Understanding the integration of factors influencing career-related decisions is paramount in providing effective guidance and support during this critical phase of life. The present study was planned to explore the three fundamental pillars shaping career aspirations among secondary school girl students: Personality, Aptitude, and Vocational Interests. The sample comprisedof 150 girl students (between the age range13 and 17 years) studying in government secondary schools in Punjab. Three tools:NEO FFI-3, Tamanna: An Aptitude Test for Senior School Students, and Vocational Interest Record were administered to the respondents. The data were analysed using Pearson’s product Moment correlation and regression analysis. Theresults showed that (i)specific personality traits, particularly neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness, have significant correlations with vocational interests, (ii) Aptitude levels have significant correlations with specific vocational interests among secondary students, (iii) Regression analysis revealed that Perceptual Ability was a significant predictor of vocational interests across multiple domains. At the same time,Neuroticism, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness play significant roles in predicting specific vocational interests, contributing to our understanding of how personality traits and aptitudes influence career preferences, and suggesting implications for educational guidance and career counselling practices.