General Perceptions of Career Decision‐Making Autonomy Among Youth in Rural Philippines: An Experimental Study Examining Cultural and Gender Dynamics

Melisa Fabella, Mai Seki and Makoto Kakinaka

The Developing Economies, 2026, vol. 64, issue 3, 243-263

Abstract: Gender inequalities persist across various domains where traditional social norms are deeply ingrained. This study examines gendered perceptions of career decision‐making autonomy in the Philippines through self‐determination, social role, and gender congruity theories. Using an experimental vignette survey of 1174 university students, the study explores how respondents perceive autonomy in navigating parental career advice through hypothetical scenarios. Autonomy in this context is framed as the ability to recognize and pursue one's desired career path despite the parental nudge. Findings revealed that respondents generally tend to perceive hypothetical daughter character to have greater autonomy in career choices than the son. Although global efforts focus on women's empowerment, our results highlight the potential need to address boys' autonomy in career choices. In the Philippines, a country known for gender equality advocacy, fostering empowerment across genders is essential to ensure fair economic opportunities for all.

Date: 2026
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