It's not 'heritage': The psychological truth behind why you choose the same profession as your grandfather
The article explores the psychological factors influencing why individuals often choose the same profession as their grandparents, framing it within the context of family myths and beliefs.
The article delves into the psychological underpinnings of familial influences on career choices, particularly the tendency for individuals to pursue the same professions as their grandparents. It discusses how deeply embedded myths and beliefs within families shape career paths, sometimes unconsciously. The psychologist Emiliano Villavicencio refers to these as 'assumed beliefs,' representing unchallenged behavioral patterns that dictate family dynamics and responsibilities.
Furthermore, the narrative stresses the importance of these familial beliefs, likening them to other well-known family myths such as the idea of a favorite child or the concept that family should always be supportive. The text illustrates how such beliefs can impact decisions beyond childhood fantasies, embedding themselves in a person's vocational identity. It raises questions about the pressures and expectations tied to family legacy and how these can lead to both positive and negative experiences for individuals in their career journeys.
Finally, the implications of these family-oriented beliefs highlight a complex relationship between personal choice and familial expectation. The article encourages readers to reflect on their own career choices and consider how their family’s history and beliefs have shaped their paths. It suggests that while these influences can guide individuals toward certain professions, they also merit critical examination to ensure that personal desires and aspirations are not overshadowed by familial expectations.