Metaphoric perceptions of Turkish students on career decision-making self-efficacies and career expectations

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The purpose of this study was to explore how gender, age, school type, grade level, residence, family income, family size, and parents’ education level influence students’ career decision-making self-efficacy. Additionally, the current study sought to uncover the metaphors high school students (HSS) use to articulate their perceptions of career decision-making and future career expectations, and how these metaphors reflect key constructs of the Social Cognitive Career Theory. The study involved 308 HSS and utilized an explanatory mixed-method research design. The results indicated a significant difference in the collection of career-related information and mean scores by school type. It was found that HSS perceived a high level of self-efficacy and career barriers concerning their career decision-making and future career. Another finding was that negative environmental factors create a sense of uncertainty in students’ expectations. The findings pointed to the need for counseling services to navigate students’ career decisions effectively.