The impact of cultural experiences on mental health, career readiness and decision making in late adolescence: an international school qualitative interview study

Abstract

ABSTRACT In a globalised world, study and work options have become vast. The complexity of this for young people with an international upbringing can be considerable. This qualitative interview study aims to explore how different cultural experiences in childhood may influence career decision making behaviours, career preparedness and mental health in late adolescence, specifically within an international school setting. By considering the validity of these experiences, a better understanding of the psychological, social and cultural dynamics can be weighed up in order to identify suitable career guidance strategies to effectively support these young people. Using an IPA approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with four diverse international school students aged 17–18. These young people demonstrated that career decision making was influenced by their cultural experiences, with cultural identity and sense of belonging having a significant impact on their career decision making and their perceived career adaptability in readiness for entering the globalised workforce.