FOLLOW-UP OF LATER CAREERS AND LIVES OF 1,000 BOYS WHO DROPPED OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL

Compared a dropout group and a nondropout group of high school boys on several psychometric and demographic variables. The data both predated and postdated (by about 10 yr.) the time of dropout. The group were subdivided by intelligence, additional training, and early vs. late dropouts for the dropout group. The later lives of dropouts were characterized in general by relatively low socioeconomic status (SES), a downward social mobility, a higher incidence of criminal activity, and bigger families. 9th grade MMPI tests showed some personality differences between dropouts and nondropouts. When dropout and nondropout groups were matched by intelligence, most of the differences persisted. Training after dropout is of some help in future SES. Few differences were found between early and late dropouts. (16 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1969 American Psychological Association.