Using Gottfredson's Theory of Circumscription and Compromise to Improve Latino Students' School Success

Abstract

Academic success among Latino youth is low relative to other racial/ethnic groups in the United States. It is important that school counselors recognize factors that influence school success among Latino youth and develop strategies to assist those students in reaching their potential. The authors discuss Gottfredson's theory of circumscription and compromise as a framework by which school counselors can conceptualize school failure among Latino youth and devise developmental, contextual, and culturally sensitive interventions to improve Latino students’ academic and career success. They present a case study to illustrate ideas and discuss specific implications for school counselors and possibilities for future research.

Career Intervention Considerations for Unwed Young Black Mothers in the United States

“…Compromise is adjusting goals and aspirations to fit external circumstances, such as access to education and family responsibilities (Gottfredson, 1981;Lee, 2012;Zunker, 2008). Ivers, Milsom, and Newsome (2012) explained the importance of using Gottfredson's (1981) model as a way to help Latino students attain school success. Ivers and colleagues believed that the high dropout rate among Latino youth can be explained by premature circumscription, early compromise, and perceived inaccessibility to careers.…”

The role of developmental assets in childhood career development

“…During the stage of Orientation to Social Valuation (ages 9 to 13), children become more aware of their social status as well as sex roles (Gottfredson, 2002). Notably, children often eliminate the greatest portion of their career options during this stage (Ivers et al., 2012).…”

Challenges for parents of color in children's STEM career aspiration

“…School counselors also focus in using career models to enhance comprehensive school counseling programs. One such example is using Gottfredson's model of circumscription and compromise to address the career needs of Latino students (Ivers et al, 2012). Ivers et al mentioned that using this model was beneficial in reducing school dropout among Latino youth.…”