The purpose of this study was to identify the causal relation between ego identity andoccupational cognitions, by use of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). It utilized aMultidimensional Ego Identity Scale (MEIS; Tani, 2001) from the viewpoint of traittheory. A questionnaire was administered to 1,235 junior college students as they begantheir second year in childcare worker training courses. The results of SEM suggested that(1) sense of identity increased students' understanding of childcare work, and feelingof fitness to work in childcare; (2) feeling of fitness increased anticipation of enhancedfeelings of satisfaction, and interest; (3) interest increased commitment with regardto childcare work and intention to continue with childcare; and (4) understanding ofchildcare work increased commitment.