Motivational Factors That Influence Career Choice - African American Women Legislators

African American women with political aspirations have been faced with an intriguing and unique disadvantage? being Black and female. As a minority within a minority, they face challenges and political career obstacles unlike their political counterparts. For instance, rather than assume political leadership African American women are encouraged or expected to pursue career interest typically characterized as motherly. They are influenced to serve as supporter or caretaker behind the political front line. There is a paucity of documents that have addressed the presence of African American women in politics relative to perceptions and behaviors directed toward them as they seek to fulfill their aspiration to serve legislatively. This ethnographic research reveals how and why they remained committed to their legislative commitments. Congressional leaders may gain useful insight about women in politics. Additionally, influences discussed such as: intrinsic and extrinsic can serve as a motivational, educational resource for professionals in varying career fields. Most note worthy, this study identifies and describes the journeys of individuals who have demonstrated steadfastness persistence, career savvy and endurance enabling them to achieve their goals