This study compares the job preferences of 57 college professors and 965 other professional workers from the General Social Surveys, 1972–1988 by the Roper Center. Analysis shows college professors are significantly more likely to prefer important, meaningful work and significantly less likely to prefer high pay or chances for advancement. College professors appear to be more strongly motivated than other professionals by intrinsic job considerations.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Matthews et al. (1989) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 3 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: