Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Document Type
Thesis
Date of this Version
10-1966
Citation
Thesis (M.A.)—University of Nebraska—Lincoln, 1966. Department of Sociology.
Abstract
This study focuses on several selected concepts or variables that have been suggested by prominent men, to be relevant for further study in the area of occupational choice.Specifically, this study attempts to see what inter-relationships exist among some of the factors which enter into the process of deciding to enter the Lutheran ministry.These factors include situational factors (rural urban differences and religious environment), charismatic self-concept, and anticipatory socialization.
The sample chosen for this study consists of first year male students (1965-66 academic year) enrolled at Concordia Theological Seminary, Springfield, Illinois.The majority of the sample members hold a baccalaureate degree from a variety of colleges in the United States and Canada.All of them are members of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, which owns and controls the ministry.
The questionnaire consisted of multiple choice questions. Once the questionnaire was constructed it was subjected to a pre-test.The pre-test was carried out with ten Lutheran clergymen, all of which are now on the faculty of Concordia Teachers College, Seward, Nebraska.
Upon examining the situational factor of rural-urban differences several things became apparent.There is a statistically significant difference between rural and urban individuals as to the time in life they definitely decided to become ministers.Urban seminarians much more frequently decided later in life to enter the seminary.Between rural and urban seminarians there was no statistically significant differences as far as possessing the charismatic self-concept was concerned.In light of the data analyzed, it is evident that individuals with a strong charismatic self-concept experienced less difficulty in deciding to become clergymen than did those with a weak charismatic self-concept.Seminarians with a strong charismatic self-concept are more certain of the ministry being the right occupation for them.The direction of association shows that seminarians with a strong charismatic self-concept participated more actively in church youth activities than did those with a weak charismatic self-concept. Those seminarians who had a high incidence of anticipatory socialization had more exposure to religious environment (family devotions), than those who experienced less of the same environment.
Advisor: Harry J. Crockett
Comments
Copyright 1966, the author. Used by permission.