Career decision making of Greek post secondary vocational students: The impact of parents and career decision making selfefficacy

Abstract

A study was undertaken to determine the impact of both parents and career decision making self-efficacy on Greek post secondary vocational students’ career decision making. Additional variables investigated were age, gender, parental educational background, career decision making ability and peer influence. The students career decision self-efficacy was measured using the Career Decision Self-Efficacy-Short Form scale (CDSE-SF) developed by Betz Klein and Taylor (1996). Parental influence was measured by using a Career Decision Making Questionnaire developed by the researchers. Instruments were administered to148 students (58 female and 90 male). The results of the study indicated significant correlation between students’ Career Decision Self-efficacy and career decision making, with respect to the educational level of the mother. Results also revealed a strong correlation between parental influence and career decision making ability. No gender differences concerning parental impact on decision making were found. Limitations of the study and issues of future research are discussed.