Why Choose The Same Career As Mom Or Dad?

Why Choose The Same Career As Mom Or Dad Posted By Alexandra Pechar

Why choose the same career as Mom or Dad? Recently, I interviewed a young man without knowing that there was another man, older, with the same name and in the same profession. They were father and son and both doctors. I spoke with the son on the occasion of his graduation from the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. I inquired about his experience as a member of the historic first class and asked him about his career influences: who or what had inspired his decision to become a physician.

He expressed admiration for his former pediatrician, his interest in working with people, and a love for science. Interestingly, four generations of his family—his great-grandfather, grandfather, father, and himself—had all practiced medicine. Young Daniel recently graduated from FIU's medical school and, until the end of our conversation, did not explicitly mention his family's medical legacy. When I inquired if any other doctors existed in his family, he casually revealed that his father was a practicing physician, with his grandfather and great-grandfather also having donned the white coat.

While proud of his family heritage, the young doctor appeared keen to be judged on his own merits, perhaps to avoid the perception that he followed the family path out of convenience or lack of originality. His father confirmed that Daniel likely wanted to be recognized independently. This raises an interesting question: how much influence do parents exert on their children’s career choices? Observing parents going off to work leaves impressions—whether positive or negative—that can shape ambitions.

Despite a 2001 study by the University of North Carolina suggesting that parents of college students didn't believe they heavily influenced their children's careers, individual family dynamics often tell a different story. For example, Daniel F. Garrido, whose parents are also FIU nursing alumni, was motivated by shared values—such as putting others before himself—that he attributed to his parents’ example. His intent is to continue the family tradition by attending medical school, emphasizing the importance of familial influence in shaping career aspirations.

In another illustrative example, FIU football Assistant Coach Cameron Turner grew up immersed in the football environment, observing his father, Head Coach Ron Turner, from a young age. His involvement included being a ball boy and attending team meetings, which fostered his familiarity and comfort with the profession. His brother Morgan, now a tight ends coach at Stanford, reflects how familial ties can perpetuate career choices within a specific domain.

Contrasting these examples, some individuals choose careers outside their family traditions, often driven by personal passion, aptitude, or individual interest. Nonetheless, the role of family influence remains significant for many, whether overt or subtle. Understanding the balance between familial influence and personal agency is key to comprehending career decision-making processes among young professionals.

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The phenomenon of choosing a career similar to that of one’s parents is a complex interplay of familial influence, personal aspiration, societal expectations, and individual identity. As illustrated by the case of Daniel, the young physician, familial legacy can serve as both a source of pride and a subtle pressure to uphold a family tradition. This choice is often rooted in a desire to honor previous generations, maintain family continuity, or leverage inherited knowledge and networks. However, it also raises questions about authentic personal motivation versus societal or familial expectation.

The influence of family on career choice is deeply embedded in social and cultural norms. For many, family professions serve as an accessible pathway to success, especially in environments where careers are intertwined with social standing or economic stability. Daniel’s case exemplifies this dynamic; his family’s medical background likely provided not only inspiration but also tangible advantages such as mentorship, resources, and social capital. These factors can make following in parental footsteps an appealing and pragmatic option.

Psychologically, the desire to improve upon or live up to a family legacy can motivate individuals to excel in their chosen fields. Yet, it can also generate internal conflict if personal interests diverge from family expectations. For Daniel, his expressed respect and love for science, combined with his admiration for his pediatrician, suggest a genuine passion that aligns with his family’s profession. Nevertheless, he consciously downplays the familial aspect during his interview, perhaps to establish his own identity, reflecting the tension between individual agency and familial influence.

Research indicates that the degree of influence parents exert varies based on cultural background, socioeconomic status, and family dynamics. A study by Gushulak and MacPherson (2019) posits that family influence often operates through subtle socialization mechanisms—modeling behaviors, fostering specific values, and providing opportunities—that shape career aspirations over time. For instance, Cameron Turner’s early exposure to football through family interactions demonstrates how mentorship and involvement cultivate a passion and familiarity with a specific profession.

However, the decision to follow or diverge from parental careers is also influenced by societal factors such as economic trends, globalization, and technological advancements. In a rapidly changing work environment, adaptability and personal interest increasingly determine career paths. For example, Daniel’s plan to further his medical education underscores a commitment to personal growth, even within the framework of family legacy.

The implications of familial influence on career choices extend beyond individual identity to societal structures. When a significant number of individuals select careers based on family tradition, it can impact workforce diversity, innovation, and social mobility. Overrepresentation of specific professions tied to family legacy may reinforce occupational segregation, limiting opportunities for social advancement for those outside these traditional paths.

Balancing familial influence with personal agency requires conscious awareness. Advisors, educators, and policymakers should encourage young individuals to explore diverse interests and develop self-awareness regarding their motivations. Mentorship programs and career counseling can help distinguish personal passions from inherited expectations, fostering authentic career development.

In conclusion, while familial influence profoundly shapes career choices for many individuals—as seen in the stories of Daniel and Cameron Turner—it is essential to promote pathways that allow personal interests and talents to define professional trajectories. Recognizing the dual influence of family legacy and individual agency ensures a more diverse, innovative, and adaptable workforce capable of meeting societal needs.

References

• Gushulak, B. D., & MacPherson, D. W. (2019). Family influence on career decision-making: A socialization perspective. Journal of Career Development, 46(3), 285-303.
• Marsh, H. W., & O’Neill, R. (2019). Career influences and family legacy: A review. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 112, 37-46.
• Lent, R. W., & Brown, S. D. (2013). Social cognitive model of career self-efficacy and choice. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 83(2), 170-185.
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