Job values, gender and profession: a comparative study of the transition from school to work

Professional practice is important in the lives of many people and it is often assumed that professionals are motivated with a desire to serve the public interest. However, studies have increasingly addressed the professional dilemma of combining demands for efficiency with the obligation to help others. This study examines what professionals want from work as well as any changes in their job values during the transition from school to work. Based on data obtained from a Norwegian study, the results do not support the assumption that professionals find it difficult to serve the public interests. However, job values, like job security and high income, seem to become more important as the professionals move from school to work. In addition, the change in emphasis on part‐time work when caring for small children is different for men and women with the same education and occupational prestige.