Abstract
This study aimed, first, to determine whether the intra-individual variability in positive affect was related to the intra-individual variability in career decision-making self-efficacy, and career choice anxiety. The second objective was to examine whether social support moderates the relationship between affect and these outcome variables. The third objective was to find out how career decision-making self-efficacy and career choice anxiety change according to self-esteem and future time perspective. We conducted a study using the daily diary method in which participants were asked to rate their affect or attitudes for 21 consecutive days. In total, 128 university students participated in this study. The main results were as follows. First, positive affect was associated positively with career decision-making self-efficacy and negatively with career choice anxiety. Second, social support had a synergy effect with positive affect to influence career choice anxiety. Third, self-esteem was related positively to career decision-making self-efficacy and negatively to career choice anxiety. We discuss theoretical and practical implications.
Highlights
Most young adults are well aware of the significance of career decision-making and are very concerned about their future careers
The results showed that future time perspective was not related to career decision-making selfefficacy (γ = 0.13, p > 0.05) and negatively to career choice
Based on Social cognitive career theory (SCCT), this study examined the influence of intraindividual variability and inter-individual differences in self-concept on the variability in career decision-making self-efficacy and career choice anxiety
Summary
Most young adults are well aware of the significance of career decision-making and are very concerned about their future careers. While attempting to make a good career decision, each individual must consider his or her own preferences, interests, capabilities, and skills (Judge et al, 2010; Ng and Feldman, 2010). External factors—career prospects, variations in the job market, etc.—can influence career decision-making. College graduates have difficulty in getting the jobs they want (Joo, 2014). All these hardships can result in confusion and difficulties in career decision-making (Levin and Gati, 2015). It is necessary to conduct studies to understand the process of young peoples’ career decision-making and to assist those who are experiencing these difficulties
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