Identity status, occupational aspiration and field dependence in Maori and Pakeha boys

Abstract

Socio-economic inequality between Maoris and Pakehas concerns many people. An important determining factor of socio-economic status is occupation. This paper studies aspects of occupational choice in 46 Maoris and 44 Pakeha adolescents enrolled at secondary school. Marcia's concept of ego identity status provided a framework for establishing differences in occupational aspiration. Differences in field dependence were also measured. It was hypothesised that Maoris and Pakehas would be different in their distribution over the identity statuses, in their occupational aspirations, and in their degree of field dependence. Subjects were interviewed to determine identity status and occupational aspiration. Field dependence was measured by a Rod and Frame test. The findings revealed that more Maoris than Pakehas tend to identity diffusion, and more Pakehas than Maoris tend to identity achievement. Occupational aspiration and field dependence were not affected by ethnicity per se. Rather, identity status transcended ethnicity in those two dimensions. It was concluded that cultural factors appear to render identity diffusion an adaptable status for Maoris. However, in view of the similarity in functioning between Maoris and Pakehas within each status, it was suggested that identity achievement should be made more adaptive for Maoris.