Socioemotional Selectivity Research Articles

Interrelationships among age, time horizons, and uncertainty: emotional experiences and workplace learning

Abstract The present study examines interrelationships among age, time horizons, and uncertainty and how they influence preferences for work tasks. We tested hypotheses that were grounded in socioemotional selectivity theory about the role of uncertainty in age differences in work task preferences. The study included 213 participants who were full-time workers aged 25–76 years. Consistent with previous findings, both older ages and shorter occupational time horizons were associated with preferences for emotionally meaningful work tasks over career-advancing tasks. Uncertainty about work was unrelated to work preferences in younger and middle-aged workers, but work uncertainty in older workers was associated with a reduced motivation for emotionally meaningful work. These findings suggest that workplace uncertainty could potentially reduce age-related prosociality at work. Findings make theoretical and applied contributions to the understanding of age-diverse occupational settings.

Enhancing Intergenerational Connections: Exploring the Benefits for Older Adults and College Students in a Telephonic Reassurance Program

Loneliness is well documented as a major, yet preventable, risk factor for well-being among older adults that was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half of some countries’ older population experience loneliness, which significantly increases risks for dementia, heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, hospitalization, and even hastened death. Utilizing socioemotional selectivity theory, the current study addresses. the inverse relationship between aging and social outlet availability by providing empirical data on the benefits of intergenerational programming. Data from adult–college student dyads who participated in a telephone reassurance program focused on reminiscence guiding were analyzed to determine outcomes of participation. Qualitative analyses revealed the emergence of themes surrounding familial/friendship bonds and self-discovery among adult participants and a rejuvenated appreciation for the little things in life as well as a sense of purpose from meaningful contributions among college student participants. Results are discussed in terms of continued growth and development during late adulthood and professional and personal growth among students. The psychologically and emotionally meaningful nature of quality intergenerational programs provides a platform for the formation of unique relationships to offset fractured social outlets during later life, providing protections against loneliness and work to establish unique relationships between disparate groups who otherwise may never have crossed paths.

Decoding Age-Related Changes in Emotional Reactivity: The Importance of Distinguishing Positive and Negative Sensations

This study investigated age-related variations in emotional reactivity, focusing on the differentiation between positive and negative emotional sensations. Grounded in Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (SST), we hypothesized that older vs. younger adults would exhibit heightened valence and intensity in their emotional sensations, alongside increased co-occurrence of positive and negative sensations. We presented 100 negative, 100 neutral, and 100 positive images to 67 young adults and 72 older adults. Utilizing unipolar scales enabled a nuanced analysis of emotional reactivity. Our findings revealed that older vs. younger adults overall report: 1) more positive and negative sensations, with a predominance for positive sensations, particularly when faced with positive images; 2) more intense sensations, regardless of the valence of the images; 3) more complex emotional sensations, particularly when faced with negative images. Thus, our findings validated the key principles of SST and can be seen as a manifestation of an adaptive strategy developed in older adults to promote richer, more positive emotional experiences. However, the study’s broader implications are moderated by certain limitations. The experimental sample shows a gender imbalance, with a predominance of females and a lack of racial, ethnic and socio-economic diversity in older adults. In addition, the low- to medium-intensity emotional stimuli reflect only a narrow spectrum of everyday experiences. These constraints underscore the need for future research to encompass greater demographic inclusion and a wider range of emotional stimuli to ensure the applicability of our findings to more complex populations and emotional landscapes.

Beyond chronological age: exploring how different future time perspective influences the health tourism intention

BackgroundThe burgeoning field of health tourism has garnered significant attention due to its integration of health and leisure, reflecting a growing consumer demand for wellness-oriented travel experiences. Based on the socioemotional selectivity theory, this study examines the relationship between future time perspective, health awareness, involvement, and health tourism intention. It aims to understand how different dimensions of future time perspective influence the intention to engage in health tourism, beyond the traditional chronological age.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among individuals aged 16 years and above with normal cognitive function. Data was collected through online questionnaires distributed on popular Chinese social media platforms, WeChat and QQ. A total of 536 valid questionnaires were returned, with a validity rate of 91.47%. The study employed the structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the proposed hypotheses.ResultsThe effect of different dimensions of future time perspective on health tourism intention differed. Limited future time perspective (LFTP) positively influenced health tourism intention, while open-ended future time perspective (OFTP) did not have a significant effect on health tourism intention. Involvement and health awareness not only directly influence health tourism intention, but also mediate the relationship between future time perspective (OFTP and LFTP) and health tourism intention respectively. Moreover, there is a significant difference in the effect of LFTP on healthy tourism intention between different age groups.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the importance of considering subjective time perspectives in understanding health tourism intention. Health tourism companies should focus on strategies that enhance health awareness and consumer involvement to capitalize on the positive effects of health tourism intention. Additionally, the study suggests that marketing efforts should be tailored to address the specific needs and goals of individuals with different future time perspectives, thereby optimizing the appeal of health tourism products. Future research should explore these relationships across diverse populations and contexts to further refine the understanding of health tourism decision-making.

The aging of emotional words processing in implicit and explicit emotion task: an ERP study.

This study examined how cognitive aging affects emotional word processing using event-related potential technique. Young and older adults completed both implicit lexical decision and explicit emotion categorization tasks involving positive, negative, and neutral words. Behaviorally, older adults displayed a negative emotion effect in the implicit task, which was absent in young adults. While both age groups exhibited both positive and negative emotion effects in the explicit task, older adults demonstrated a greater positivity bias compared to young adults. Event-related potential technique data revealed that young adults exhibited an early negative emotion effect on the P2 and a late emotion effect on the late positivity potentials in the implicit task. In contrast, older adults exhibited an early negativity bias effect on the P2, as well as both negative and positive emotion effects on the N400, and positive emotion effects on the late positivity potentials. In the explicit task, young adults showed both early and late negative emotion effects on the P2 and late positivity potentials, while older adults showed both negative and positive emotion effects on the late positivity potentials. The results suggest distinct processing mechanisms for emotion words in young and older adults, involving both bottom-up and top-down mechanisms, which support the socioemotional selectivity theory.

Men and women transitioning to singlehood in young adulthood and midlife.

Research has long shown that men suffer more from romantic breakups than women. We predicted that men would on average be less inclined to initiate separation, decline with the separation more in well-being and increase more in loneliness, are less satisfied with singlehood, and desire a new partner more than women. We theorized that these gender differences in separation adaptation could be linked to men's higher reliance on their partners for emotional support. Because socioemotional selectivity theory suggests that with age people shift toward more fulfilling social connections, we also expected men's dependency on their partners for emotional support to be smaller in midlife than in young adulthood. To examine our hypotheses, we analyzed multiyear within-person longitudinal change data from 1,530 mostly unmarried participants from the annual German pairfam study who had experienced a relationship dissolution. We applied propensity score matching to compare separation-related changes in well-being and loneliness to case-matched controls who remained in a romantic relationship. Results showed that men relative to women were less likely to initiate separation, less satisfied with singlehood, and wished for a partner more. In contrast to our expectations, the gender differences observed did not differ by age, and no gender differences were found in separation-related changes in well-being and loneliness. Dissolution-related effects on well-being were only evident for marital relationships, while dissolution-related effects on loneliness were equally strong for marital and nonmarital dissolutions. Our study suggests that previous findings on gender-specific divorce-induced changes in well-being may not generalize to nonmarital dissolutions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Retirement through rose-colored glasses: greater positivity bias in retired relative to working older adults

Abstract Retirement has been associated with declines in memory beyond typical age-related memory decline. This may impact the ability to remember distinct events, as older adults (OA) are susceptible to interference in memory across experiences with overlapping features. Impaired hippocampal pattern separation, a computation that allows for the disambiguation of similar experiences as unique events, is thought to underlie age-related impairment in memory. Furthermore, positive experiences tend to be better remembered than neutral or negative experiences in aging. Socioemotional selectivity theory suggests that awareness of a limited remaining lifespan leads OA to prioritize emotionally fulfilling experiences, often leading to a bias towards positive information compared to negative or neutral information. However, the potential role of retirement in contributing to these age-related changes in memory has yet to be examined. Memory measures that tax hippocampal pattern separation may be more sensitive to memory impairment in retirement compared to standard memory measures. Retirement may exacerbate awareness of reduced remaining time, such that retired OA may experience a greater positivity bias in memory than their working peers. Here, we utilized an emotional memory task that taxes hippocampal pattern separation to examine memory in age-matched retired and working OA. We found that retired OA show selective impairments for memories with high interference and a greater positivity bias in memory compared to their working peers. These findings suggest that retirement may accelerate age-related memory changes, including greater susceptibility to interference as well as a bias toward remembering positive relative to neutral information.

Age-inclusive hospitality and tourism: navigating the metaverse travel with avatar

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of virtual tours on the engagement and travel intentions of older adults, emphasizing the role of emotional and informative content. It aims to enhance travel confidence and reduce stress among older travelers, fostering inclusive tourism through advanced avatar technology. Design/methodology/approach Using two between-subjects experiments, this research compares the effects of emotion-driven and knowledge-centric virtual tours on older adults. It explores the mediating role of travel confidence and stress reduction, along with the moderating influence of positive psychological cues on engagement and travel intentions. Findings The results highlight the potential of technology in promoting inclusive tourism. Emotionally engaging virtual tours significantly increase travel intentions among older adults by boosting confidence and alleviating stress, with positive psychological cues enhancing these effects. Practical implications This study offers valuable insights for tourism industry stakeholders by suggesting the development of avatar-based virtual tours tailored to the emotional and cognitive needs of older travelers. This approach could create more accessible and satisfying tourism experiences for older travelers. Originality/value This study extends the socioemotional selectivity theory to the realm of metaverse travel, providing a novel perspective on the emotional and cognitive engagement of older adults in the metaverse. This underscores the importance of inclusive technology in addressing the needs of older travelers.

Association between Internet use and depression among older adults in China: the chain-mediating role of volunteer activity participation and friend network.

Depression is a significant burden on individuals and society, which requires our attention and action. As the aging wave collides with digitalization, further research is needed to understand how internet use relates to depression in older adults. This study aimed to investigate whether volunteer activity participation and friend networks played a chain mediating role in this relationship from the perspective of the socioemotional selectivity theory. This study's data was derived from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), comprising 5,558 samples. The study employed the OLS model for benchmark regression and multiple robust check methods, including altering variable settings and utilizing the instrumental variable model. In addition, the generalized structural equation model (GSEM) was used to analyze the mechanism. Using the internet was significantly associated with reduced depression in older adults (coefficient = -0.9321, p < 0.001). The instrumental variable model confirmed this reduction (coefficient = -0.9200, p < 0.001). Moreover, we found that there were three indirect pathways of Internet use on depression among older adults: the mediating role of volunteer activity participation (all p-values <0.001), the mediating role of friend network (all p-values <0.001), and the chain mediating role of both factors (all p-values <0.001). Based on the research findings, we suggest mobilizing tech-savvy older adults to assist others in adopting digital technology and using the internet. We also suggest that the government could assist in creating older adult-friendly communities. Social workers could collaborate with tech-savvy older adults to organize various voluntary activities, encouraging more senior citizens to participate. In addition, we recommend that the community should consider the form of activities to help older adults make friends first rather than solely focusing on voluntary activities.

Are social interactions perceived as more meaningful in older adulthood?

Social relationships accompany us throughout adulthood and are among the most important sources of meaning in a person's life. However, little is known about age differences in meaningfulness of social interactions across adulthood. According to socioemotional selectivity theory, as people age, they develop relatively stronger preferences for social relationships that are emotionally meaningful. Consequently, older adults may perceive social interactions in everyday life as more meaningful than younger adults. To test this hypothesis, the present study examined age-related differences in the perceived meaningfulness of daily social interactions using experience sampling data. Three-hundred six participants (56.9% women, 18-88 years) completed a total of 6,407 entries over 3 days. Results of the multilevel analyses showed that age was positively associated with perceived meaningfulness of daily social interactions, controlling for relationship closeness and situation valence. In addition, the perceived meaningfulness of daily social interactions was positively related to subjective well-being both between and within all participants, indicating that meaningful social interactions are beneficial for well-being regardless of age. Thus, perceiving social interactions as meaningful could be one way that older people maintain a high level of well-being in their daily lives. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Effect of Team Sports on Social Integration in Immigrant Communities in Turkey

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of team sports on social integration in immigrant communities in Turkey. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Participation in team sports significantly enhances social integration in immigrant communities in Turkey by fostering connections with both fellow immigrants and local residents. These activities facilitate cultural exchange and adaptation, helping immigrants integrate while sharing their traditions. Team sports also improve psychological well-being by reducing isolation and providing a sense of belonging. They strengthen internal community ties and boost civic participation, leading to greater inclusion in broader social and political processes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Activity theory, self-determination theory (SDT) &amp; socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) may be used to anchor future studies on effect of team sports on social integration in immigrant communities in Turkey. Community organizations and sports clubs should design and implement team sports programs tailored to the needs of immigrant communities. Policymakers should develop and support policies that encourage the integration of team sports into community-building initiatives for immigrant populations.

Relationships between digital engagement and the mental health of older adults: Evidence from China.

Based on the theory of socio-emotional selectivity, this study examines the effect of digital engagement on the mental health of older individuals using data from the 2018 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS). The results show that digital engagement has a significant effect on the mental health of older individuals, manifested by a decline in depression and an enhancement of cognitive abilities. The results are robust by Using instrumental variables to solve endogenous problem and the propensity score matching method to solve selective bias. The analysis of heterogeneity demonstrates that digital engagement can significantly reduce the depression level of older people without chronic diseases and at lower ages and promote the cognitive ability of older adults without chronic diseases and older adults of higher ages. Mechanistic analysis shows that digital engagement can reduce depression in older adults by alleviating loneliness and improving emotional well-being and cognitive performance by enhancing social support. Therefore, digital engagement gives older people a more positive emotional experience and more social support and thereby improves mental health, delivering proactive answers to the problems an aging population brings.

Influence of Recreational Activities on Quality of Life in Retirees in Canada

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of recreational activities on quality of life in retirees in Canada. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Recreational activities significantly enhance retirees' quality of life in Canada by improving physical health, reducing loneliness, and increasing life satisfaction. Activities like walking, gardening, and community involvement boost well-being and mental health. Structured programs offered by community centers also contribute to retirees' sense of purpose and belonging. Access to varied recreational options and social networks is essential for maintaining high life quality. Tailoring activities to individual interests and abilities is key to long-term benefits. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Activity theory, self-determination theory (SDT), socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) may be used to anchor future studies on influence of recreational activities on quality of life in retirees in Canada. Practitioners should design and implement customized recreational programs tailored to the specific needs, preferences, and health conditions of retirees. Policymakers should allocate resources and funding to support recreational programs specifically designed for retirees.

Reducing discrepancies between actual and ideal affect across adulthood: the roles of activity flow conduciveness, pleasantness, and familiarity

ABSTRACT Previous findings demonstrate that people often do not feel how they want to feel, supporting the distinction between “actual affect” and “ideal affect.” But are there certain activities that reduce the discrepancy between actual and ideal affect? Based on flow theory and socioemotional selectivity theory, we examined whether the discrepancy between people’s actual and ideal positive affect would be smaller during activities that were more conducive to flow (a state of intense absorption and concentration), pleasant, and familiar. In Study 1, U.S. participants aged 17–79 (N = 393) reported their ideal affect and how they felt during activities with varying degrees of challenges and skills. For both low-arousal positive affect (LAP) and high-arousal positive affect (HAP), participants reported smaller actual-ideal affect discrepancies during flow-conducive activities (when skills matched challenges). Study 2 was a 14-day experience sampling study, in which Hong Kong participants aged 18–83 (N individual = 109) reported their momentary actual and ideal affect, and how pleasant and familiar their activities were (N experience = 3,815). Greater activity familiarity was associated with smaller discrepancies in actual-ideal LAP, while greater activity pleasantness was associated with smaller discrepancies in actual-ideal HAP. These findings provide insights on the activities that help people achieve their ideal affect more easily.

Blaming the young is always more accessible rather than accusing the older employees: an experimental view over age and health in organizations.

The stereotype content model postulates that different groups evoke different emotions and reactions based on two dimensions: intention toward others (warmth) and competence. In this study, we used an experimental design and a qualitative approach to investigate how managerial strategies are selected and motivated when a subordinate makes a work task related error but belongs to a group that is stereotypical perceived differently in terms of warmth and competence (age groups with or without a medical condition). Thus 75 employees analyzed one of the five hypothetical cases and described the managerial strategy and motivation for usage. Data revealed that managerial strategies incorporate more active harm elements for younger employees in contrast with vulnerable groups (older employees with unspecified medical conditions, younger or older employees with a medical condition), who benefit from more active facilitation strategies. The strategy usage motivation is also different in the case of younger employees, the control group and the vulnerable groups. The study outcomes bring additional evidence to support the stereotype content model theory and the socioemotional selectivity theory, enriching applicability on organizational practice and human resources management.

Acceptance of physical activity virtual reality games by residents of long-term care facilities: A qualitative study.

Little is known about the experience and the social and contextual factors influencing the acceptance of virtual reality (VR) physical activity games among long-term care (LTC) residents. Our study aims to address this research gap by investigating the unique experience of older adults with VR games. The findings will provide valuable insights into the factors influencing VR acceptance among LTC residents and help design inclusive VR technology that meets their needs and improves physical activity (PA) and well-being. We aimed to: (1) investigate how participants experience VR exergames and the meaning they associate with their participation; and (2) examine the factors that influence the participant's experience in VR exergames and explore how these factors affect the overall experience. We used a qualitative approach that follows the principles of the Interpretive Description methodology. Selective Optimization and Compensation (SOC) theory, Socioemotional Selectivity theory (SST) and technology acceptance models underpinned the theoretical foundations of this study. We conducted semi-structured interviews with participants. 19 Participants of a LTC were interviewed: five residents and ten tenants, aged 65 to 93 years (8 female and 7 male) and four staff members. Interviews ranged from 15 to 30 minutes and were transcribed verbatim and were analyzed using thematic analysis. We identified four themes based on older adults' responses that reflected their unique VR gaming experience, including (1) enjoyment, excitement, and the novel environment; (2) PA and motivation to exercise; (3) social connection and support; and (4) individual preferences and challenges. Three themes were developed based on the staff members' data to capture their perspective on the factors that influence the acceptance of VR among LTC resident including (1) relevance and personalization of the games; (2) training and guidance; and (3) organizational and individual barriers. VR gaming experiences are enjoyable exciting, and novel for LTC residents and tenants and can provide physical, cognitive, social, and motivational benefits for them. Proper guidance and personalized programs can increase understanding and familiarity with VR, leading to a higher level of acceptance and engagement. Our findings emphasize the significance of social connection and support in promoting acceptance and enjoyment of VR gaming among older adults. Incorporating social theories of aging helps to gain a better understanding of how aging-related changes influence technology acceptance among older adults. This approach can inform the development of technology that better meets their needs and preferences.

Do increases in work uncertainty help older workers maintain higher levels of occupational future time perspective?

Abstract In this study, we consider how changes in work uncertainty (i.e., systematic, linear trajectories that reflect over-time changes in resource, task, and input/output uncertainty) moderate the generally negative relation between employee age and occupational future time perspective (OFTP) (i.e., employeesâ&amp;#x80;&amp;#x99; perceptions of their remaining time, opportunities, and limitations at work). Based on the theoretical model of uncertainty regulation and propositions from socioemotional selectivity theory, we argue that increases (vs. decreases) in work uncertainty present the potential for new opportunities, particularly among older (vs. younger) workers, who can draw on their age-related strengths for dealing with uncertainty. Specifically, we argue that increases in work uncertainty allow older workers to make use of their accumulated knowledge and experience, which, in turn, helps them to maintain higher levels of OFTP. We consider longitudinal data collected among a sample of nâ&amp;#x80;&amp;#x85;=â&amp;#x80;&amp;#x85;720 employees in Germany. Considering substantive variables, variously measured across 18 months, we find evidence in partial support of the general proposition that increases in work uncertainty across three months (i.e., June through September of 2022) buffer the relation between age and OFTP collected at four subsequent timepoints (November of 2022, and June, November, and December of 2023). We discuss the implications of these findings for the future development of the model of uncertainty regulation.

The Role of Recreational Activities in Enhancing Quality of Life among the Elderly

Purpose: The general aim of this study was to explore the role of recreational activities in enhancing the quality of life among the elderly. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of recreational activities in enhancing the quality of life among the elderly. Preliminary empirical review revealed that regular participation in recreational activities was crucial for improving various aspects of well-being for older adults. Physical activities improved physical health and mobility, social activities reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation, and cognitive and creative activities stimulated the brain and enhanced psychological well-being. The study identified gaps in understanding and access to recreational activities for the elderly, highlighting the need for more research and inclusive programming. Overall, the findings underscored the importance of tailored recreational programs in promoting a better quality of life for elderly individuals. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of Planned Behavior, Activity Theory and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory may be used to anchor future studies on recreational activities on the quality of life among the elderly. The study made significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy in gerontology and public health. It provided empirical support for existing theories, such as the Theory of Planned Behavior and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory, while offering actionable recommendations for healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. By validating theoretical frameworks, offering practical insights, and informing policy initiatives, the study advanced understanding of how recreational interventions can promote well-being and quality of life in aging populations. Through continued research, practice, and policy efforts, stakeholders could work collaboratively to create supportive environments

Relationship between Artistic Expression and Mental Well-being

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the relationship between artistic expression and mental well-being. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to artistic expression and mental well-being. Preliminary empirical review revealed that engaging in creative activities offers therapeutic benefits such as emotional expression, self-discovery, and social connection. Through various forms of art, individuals were able to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of belonging within their communities. Moreover, artistic expression served as a catalyst for personal transformation and empowerment, enabling individuals to overcome challenges and find meaning in their experiences. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating arts-based interventions into mental health care to promote holistic well-being. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Art as Therapy theory, Flow theory and Socio-Emotional Selectivity theory may be used to anchor future studies. The studies exploring the relationship between artistic expression and mental well-being offered valuable recommendations that contributed to theoretical advancements, informed practical applications, and guided policy development. By elucidating the therapeutic mechanisms of artistic expression, practitioners integrated arts-based interventions into clinical practice, educators incorporated arts into school curricula, and policymakers advocated for increased funding and support for arts initiatives in healthcare and community settings. These efforts aimed to foster creativity, resilience, and social connection, ultimately enhancing mental well-being across diverse populations.

Exploring the Impact of College Students' Future Time Insights on Career Decision-making Difficulties: A Big Data Technology-based Approach

Career decision-making difficulty is an important factor affecting the smooth employment of college students. Big data technology provides college students with more comprehensive, accurate and personalized career decision support, which helps them make more informed career choices and maximize their personal career development. Previous studies have shown that the Internet and digitization have significant information effect, which have important influence on the improvement of future time insight and career decision-making difficulties. Under the background of digitization, to explore the relationship between future time perspective and career decision-making difficulties of college students based on the Socioemotional Selectivity Theory, and to investigate the role of self-efficacy. 1092 college students were investigated by using the Scales. The result shows that the future time perspective predicts college students’ career decision-making difficulties negatively; Self-efficacy plays a mediation role between future time perspective and career decision-making difficulties. The research reveals the mechanism of future time perspective on college students’ career decision-making difficulties.