Self-Concept And Intrinsic Motivation as Predictors of Occupational Aspirations Among KGBV Hostel-Dwelling and Day-Scholar Female Learners from the Same Schools in Purulia District

This study examined the influence of Multidimensional Self-Concept and Intrinsic Motivation on the Occupational Aspirations of female learners residing in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) and compared them with day scholars from the same schools in Purulia District, West Bengal. An ex post facto, descriptive survey design was adopted. The sample comprised 401 female learners, including 193 KGBV hostel dwellers and 208-day scholars, selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the Self-Concept Inventory (Shah, 1986), the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (Ryan, 1982), and the Occupational Aspiration Scale (Grewal, 1998). Multiple regression analysis was employed to determine the predictive effects of Self-Concept and Intrinsic Motivation on Occupational Aspirations. The findings revealed that Self-Concept was the strongest and statistically significant predictor of Occupational Aspirations across all groups, while the dimensions of Intrinsic Motivation showed limited independent predictive power. Notably, the predictive influence of Self-Concept was stronger among KGBV learners than among day scholars, indicating the positive role of the KGBV residential environment in fostering confidence and higher career aspirations. The study concludes that the KGBV Scheme contributes significantly to the psychological empowerment of disadvantaged girls by strengthening their self-concept and promoting higher occupational aspirations.

Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), Self-Concept, Intrinsic Motivation, Occupational Aspirations, Female Learners.

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