Graduate Program

College Student Affairs

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

2007

Thesis Director

Richard Roberts

Thesis Committee Member

Charles Eberly

Thesis Committee Member

Leanne Olson

Abstract

This study examined the career decision-making experiences of undergraduate students who were classified as "undecided" in their majors and who qualified as adult children of alcoholics using the Children of Alcoholic Screening Test (Pilat & Jones, 1984). Through basic interpretative qualitative research, this study examined the decision-making experiences of adult children of alcoholics as they choose a major.

Results of this study were limited based on participation; however, three undergraduate females did share their experiences regarding family alcoholism and choosing a major. Only one participant discussed the impact of her family alcoholism on her decision of choosing a college major. Two other participants stated their parents did not have drinking problems. The findings of this study are an important step toward understanding a population of undergraduate students who are looking for guidance in choosing a major. Future research for this specific population should use a mixed methods or longitudinal design.

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