Reciprocal Relation Between Career Values and Career Goal Progress: A Two-Wave Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Existing research tends to treat individuals’ career values as relatively stable and independent factors that shape subsequent attitudes and behaviors, yet overlooks reverse causal effects. Employing the self-determination theory and the cognitive dissonance theory, we empirically tested the reciprocal relationship between career values and career goal progress, and the dynamic relations among different dimensions of career values. Data were collected using a time-lagged panel design across one year among a large sample of Chinese college students (N = 2339). Results show that intrinsic fulfillment value (Time 1) positively predicts career goal progress (Time 2); career goal progress (Time 1) is positively related to all three kinds of career values (Time 2). In addition, external compensation value at Time 1 attenuates intrinsic fulfillment value and work-life balance value at Time 2, and work-life balance value at Time 1 is negatively related to intrinsic fulfillment value at Time 2. Theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed.