Occupational Choice: Factors affecting occupation selection and segregation in Pakistan

career planning is an important decision in the life of a person. Individuals vary in productive capacity and utility preferences therefore all do not evenly fit for each occupational group. Selection of occupation has a direct bearing on the economic development of the country as the level of output, national income and distribution of wealth is decided by the type of occupation that labor selects. The world of work is like a riddle. It is not easy for an individual to understand and select the appropriate one from various occupations. It is necessary for one to have massive information about real situation in the labor market and labor market trends. Information that can be helpful in deciding about occupation includes information about nature of work, personal interests and attributes, skill requirements, education, experience, physical working conditions, level of stress, career advancement opportunities and alternatives available. Current study has investigated the aspects affecting occupational selection among age group of 14-65 yeas in Pakistan and also level of gender segregation in occupations. Further the factors responsible for this segregation are also worked out.