The Dimensions of Attitude and Their Attributes with Regard to Youths’ Attitudes Towards Agriculture as a Profession

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the dimensions of attitude attributing to the young generation’s attitude towards agriculture as a profession. This study adopted an exploratory approach using a case study survey method to collect data that were subsequently analyzed using a content analysis technique. The sample encompassed fifty-two undergraduate students, who were descendants of farmers, and who were enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Agricultural Resources Administration program at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. The results revealed four dimensions of attitude towards agriculture as a profession: 1) professional recognition, 2) financial benefit, 3) professional practice, and 4) quality of life. The results demonstrated that when a response contained only one dimension, the professional recognition dimension was always presented as a favorable attitude. Furthermore, when two or more dimensions were referred to in a response, the response that included the professional recognition dimension made the statement of unfavorable or negative attitudes towards agriculture as a profession softened or toned down. In terms of policy implications, organizations in charge of supporting the young generation in pursuing a career in agriculture should focus on strengthening public recognition of agriculture as one of the most respectable professions, since the professional recognition dimension is arguably attributing to positive attitudes.