Orientations and motivations: Are you a “people person,” a “thing person,” or both?

Content Provider	Semantic Scholar
Author	Graziano, William G. Habashi, Meara M. Evangelou, Demetra Ngambeki, Ida B.
Copyright Year	2012
Abstract	Previous theory and research suggests that individuals selectively orient primarily toward the social environment (people) or toward the physical environment (things). These orientations can be conceptualized as motivation-based complexes that influence personal preferences and interests, with consequences for important life choices. This paper examined differential orientation in two studies, one with university students and another with children. Person-thing Orientation showed sex differences and was related to occupational choices in both age groups. For university students person-thing interests were linked to academic majors, and retention within programs focused on things (e.g., science and engineering). Sex differences were greater for TO than PO, but not for students majoring in engineering. Sex differences in selective orientations to the social and physical environments were similar in children (3rd and 6th grade) and university students, suggesting processes may be underway early and may be consequential for sex differences in interests and career trajectories for STEM.
Starting Page	465
Ending Page	477
Page Count	13
File Format	PDF HTM / HTML
DOI	10.1007/s11031-011-9273-2
Alternate Webpage(s)	https://webapps.krannert.purdue.edu/kap/KATALYST/public/publications.aspx?attachmentid=1186&personid=167670&publicationid=8219
Alternate Webpage(s)	https://doi.org/10.1007/s11031-011-9273-2
Volume Number	36
Language	English
Access Restriction	Open
Content Type	Text
Resource Type	Article