Sex Differences in Response to a Blocked Career Pathway Among Unaccepted Medical School Applicants

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.