This study estimates antecedents of early career alienation of a male age cohort (N=442) with panel data, 15 year interval. The theoretical model sequentially attributes effects to statuses of origin, adolescent personality characteristics, and current socioeconomic statuses. The study establishes definitions of alienation both inductively (by means of cannonical correlation and Joreskog confirmatory factor analysis) and deductively. The general finding is that how one operationally defines alienation is of critical importance to interpreting the findings inasmuch as specific forms of alienation manifest unique patterns of antecedents and consequences. Specific indicators of adolescent social integration positively affect early career attainments. It is proposed that adolescent social integration provides either the setting for learning high attainment aspirations or a context for learning interpersonal skills that benefit later attainments. Future research is suggested. (Author)