Abstract

BARDAGI, Marucia Patta  and  HUTZ, Cláudio Simon. There was no other way": dropout students perceptions on leaving higher education. PsicoUSF [online]. 2009, vol.14, n.1, pp. 95-105. ISSN 1413-8271.

University dropout is a phenomenon that is increasing in Brazil but there are few studies about the characteristics of dropout and its consequences for the student"s life. This study, part of a doctoral dissertation on vocational development in Higher Education, aimed to identify the reasons for career dissatisfaction and evasion in eight dropout students, three women and five men between 20 and 25 years-old (M=22,6), undergraduates in different areas who abandoned the university at different moments. Through interviews, it was possible to identify the fragility of the initial choices, little exploratory activity, and unrealistic career expectations. Besides, the decision to drop out was mostly impulsive, caused largely by long term dissatisfaction, and unrelated with new career choices. These results pointed out that strategies that emphasize exploratory behavior are important, along with support services to college students.

Keywords : University dropout; University student; Higher education.

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