Expressed and Measured Vocational Interests:Distinctions and Definitions

A conceptual look at the distinction between expressed and measured interests is undertaken. Instead of denoting two different aspects of “vocational interests,” expressed and measured interests refer to distinct psychological constructs. Expressed interests are specific intentions and measured interests are what people conventionally mean by “vocational interests.” Using research on how intentions and attitudes predict behavior, I suggest an explanation for why expressed interests have and will always better predict career choice. This analysis concludes that the terms “expressed” and “measured” should be reconsidered— using parallel terms for different concepts obscures important differences and can create unproductive problems. C © 2001 Academic Press