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In a recent feature by the Japanese news program “Newsおかえり,” a study highlighted significant differences in career aspirations between elementary and high school students, shedding light on societal expectations and parental concerns regarding occupations.
The survey by Benesse Corporation’s Shinken Zemi elementary course revealed that many elementary students are fascinated with becoming YouTubers, a dream shared among both boys and girls, reflecting a generational shift towards digital and creative careers.
For boys, other popular choices include athletes, game developers, and professional gamers, aligning with interests in entertainment and sports. Meanwhile, girls gravitate towards the creative industry, aspiring to be artists, manga creators, pastry chefs, writers, and designers.
Caregiving professions like childcare workers, teachers, nurses, and doctors also remain popular among young girls, indicating a continued interest in service-oriented careers.
Shift to Practicality in High School Aspirations
As students mature into high school, their career preferences evolve towards more stable and realistic choices. According to a survey by LINE Yahoo, public service jobs top the list for both male and female high school students, reflecting a shift towards valuing job security and benefits.
Other favored professions include those in healthcare such as doctors, nurses, counselors, and dietitians. Administrative roles, sales positions, educators, and university professors also garner interest, showing a preference for educational and business sectors.
Among male high school students, there is a strong interest in technical and engineering fields such as systems or programming, mechanical engineering, and design, illustrating their importance in contemporary career planning.
Parental Perspectives on Ideal Careers
The survey by ARINA Inc., as cited by ABC News, reveals that Japanese parents are least favorable towards careers like YouTubers and entertainers due to perceived instability and uncertain job prospects. Additionally, roles in the Self-Defense Forces and politics are also less desired by parents, mainly due to the associated risks and potential for social controversy.
Interestingly, professions that are highly regarded in other countries, such as lawyers, doctors, and nurses, are seen by some Japanese parents as too demanding and stressful, indicating a societal emphasis on work-life balance and quality of life.
Diverse Dreams and Real-World Realities
The survey results unveil a complex portrait of how different age groups in Japan view potential careers, as well as the expectations and concerns parents have regarding their children’s job choices.
While elementary students dream of creative and often idealistic careers, high school students lean towards practicality and stability, and parents prioritize safety and quality of life. These variations not only reflect the personal growth of individuals but also mirror the societal and cultural attitudes towards occupations in Japan.