Sex differences in career aspirations and behavior following unsuccessful
application to medical school are examined. Findings from a 1972 national study
indicate that, despite similar academic qualifications and initial career aspirations,
women are less persistent than men in reapplying to medical school, more likely
than men to lower their educational aspirations following rejection, and less likely
than men to enroll in doctoral degree programs. Much of the sex difference in
aspirations and behavior may be explained by the different perceptions of
rejection, types of counseling received, prior career considerations, and values of
men and women.
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