An Identity Control Theory Approach to Managing Career Identity in Emerging Adults

Abstract

Emerging adulthood provides an extended period during which potential career identities can be explored and feedback obtained before making a commitment. We tested an identity control theory model of the self-regulatory responses that emerging adults might make to negative feedback regarding their career identity. We surveyed 335 Australian emerging adults (mean age 19.28 years; 64% male) on negative career-related feedback, career-related goal discrepancy, career-related distress, career exploration, and identity defense. Consistent with theory, we found that more negative feedback was associated with greater perceived discrepancy between career goals and progress being made, which, in turn, was associated with greater distress. Distress was related to self-regulatory outcomes of identity defense and career exploration. The relationship was stronger for identity defense than for exploration. While defending might enable the current identity standard to be preserved, it might not be the most suitable response when the career goals are unsuitable or unobtainable.