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First published online April 15, 2010

Development and Validation of the Family Influence Scale

Abstract

This article describes the development and validation of the Family Influence Scale (FIS). The FIS is designed to assess perceptions of how one’s family of origin influences career and work choices. The purpose of Study 1 was to identify the domains of family influence. A 57-item scale was completed by a sample of 205 college students. Results supported a 32-item four-factor measure. The purpose of Study 2 was to refine the initial scale’s items and examine construct validity using a larger and more diverse sample (n = 537). Results supported a four-factor solution composed of the following sub-scales: Informational Support, Financial Support, Family Expectations, and Values/Beliefs. Findings also provided support for the internal consistency and construct validity of the scale.

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Published In

Article first published online: April 15, 2010
Issue published: August 2010

Keywords

  1. family influences
  2. career development
  3. career decision making
  4. scale development
  5. cultural differences

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Authors

Affiliations

Nadya A. Fouad
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA, [email protected]
Elizabeth W. Cotter
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA
Mary E. Fitzpatrick
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA
Neeta Kantamneni
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA
Laura Carter
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA
Steve Bernfeld
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, WI, USA

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