Young Women in Search for Autonomy. New Generation of Female Professionals Entering the Labour Market

Abstract

The Paper presented here examines a part of findings of the research project “Polish Women Entering Adulthood”. The authors focus in particular on adulthood patterns accompanying young women entering the labour market. The theoretical foundation of the analysis is Deci and Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory, however, the authors of the study also referred to modern and innovative developments of this concept. The research conclusions contribute to the discussion on building new lifestyles and the professional development opportunities for young Polish women. Important elements of this process are the views of young women on the socio-psychological conditions of their development, as well as on the factors shaping their professional environment. The data analyzed in this paper gives us a micro-scale picture of the lifestyle of the youngest generation of female employees entering the labour market. This is therefore the analysis of the socio-political dynamics of change facilitated on a day-by-day scale by the youngest generation of professionals. Public policy makers will find this study a useful source of information on the professional aspirations of the youngest generation of women building the future shape of the Polish economy and labour market.