PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF COLLEGE VOLUNTEERS IN MENTAL HOSPITALS

41 male and 110 female undergraduates volunteering for summer work in mental hospitals were compared to 142 control students on personality, occupational-interest, and life-history variables. Striking personality characteristics of mental health volunteers were maturity and control, drive for independent achievement, and sensitivity to people and human problems. Vocational interests and life-history data on volunteers were consistent with these personality characteristics. In vocational interests, volunteers were similar to men and women in the independent professions and in professions emphasizing social service or the exercise of language and artistic skills. Life-history data indicated that volunteers were more service-oriented and committed to mental health work than other college Ss. The role of test-taking attitudes in producing these differences was discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1969 American Psychological Association.