Meta-Analysis: The Role of Race/Ethnicity and Gender in Career Choice

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore differences in race/ethnicity and gender groups related to three career choices and development components: (1) career choice and aspirations, (2) perceptions of opportunities and barriers in career choices, and (3) career decision-making and explorations. This meta-analysis compiled the quantitative studies published from June 2004 to 2017. Forty-three studies were retrieved and coded for the effects of gender, while 37 studies were collected to investigate the effects of race/ethnicity. Results demonstrated that the gender groups had significant effects on two outcome components: career choice and aspirations and career decision-making and explorations. Career choice and aspirations and perceptions of opportunities and barriers had statistically significant differences between race/ethnicity groups. This study confirms the pivotal role of social contextual factors in choosing a career. Moreover, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the different perspectives of minority groups related to career choices.