Intrinsic Motivation and Academic Life Satisfaction as Predictors of Occupational Aspiration among Female Learners of KGBV and Day Schools in Jhargram and Bankura

This study examines the influence of intrinsic motivation and academic life satisfaction on shaping occupational aspirations among female learners in the Jhargram and Bankura districts of West Bengal. Participants included secondary and higher secondary students from both Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) schools and day-scholar contexts. A survey design was employed to examine the predictive relationships between learners’ motivation, satisfaction with their academic environment, and their career goals. Findings indicate that intrinsic motivation is positively associated with academic life satisfaction, and together they significantly predict the ambition and scope of occupational aspirations. Moreover, academic life satisfaction was found to mediate the relationship between intrinsic motivation and occupational aspirations partially, highlighting the importance of positive school experiences in translating internal motivation into broader career possibilities. These results underscore the need for supportive educational environments that nurture motivation and satisfaction to enhance girls’ career development, particularly in rural and semi-urban contexts. The study offers practical insights for educators and policymakers working to expand gender-equitable opportunities.