|
Have you decided on a name for your baby yet? You've racked your brain for something that flows rhythmically with your last name, something that is neither too trendy nor too obscure. Here is yet another variable to factor into you decision-making process. Due to subtle gender stereotypes for names and occupations, the name you choose for your baby might end up influencing the type of job he or she lands later.
In a study at Ohio University, young adults were asked to predict the success of people entering new careers, based on information provided about those job applicants.
The results suggest that people subconsciously predict career success for those with names that more closely match the gender stereotype associated with a profession. Those whose names didn't fit the occupation stereotypes might have a harder time landing particular jobs.
While we know that employers weigh several factors, including education, employment history and extracurricular activities, when selecting job candidates, the study reminds us that other, more subtle judgments are taking place as resumes and job applications are given the quick once-over.
In this era of political correctness, gender stereotypes for names and occupations remain, according to James Bruning, Trustee professor of psychology at Ohio University and lead author of the study.
"Grouping is one of the ways our brains work," he says. "So I think stereotyping is an example of the way we tend to think -- it's a natural tendency."
In an earlier project, Bruning, who has spent 20 years studying the psychology of names, found that these types of name stereotypes begin as early as kindergarten age. The new study suggests those assumptions follow children into adulthood.
"I wouldn't overestimate the impact of names, but at the same time, names are an important part of first impressions," says Bruning.
So what does this mean for your baby? If you are hoping to raise your little boy to be a plumber, electrician or truck driver, you can start him on the road to success with a traditionally masculine name like Howard, Harry or Bruno. Conversely, steering clear of traditionally feminine names, like Linda, Susan and Jessica, might give your little girl the competitive edge as a prospective fire fighter, police officer or welder.
Just another little something to keep in mind as you play the name game over the next several months.
| 
