Predicting change over time in career planning and career exploration for high school students.
This study assessed 166 high school students in Grade 8 and again in Grade 10. Four models were tested: (a) whether the T1 predictor variables (career knowledge, indecision, decision-making self efficacy, self-esteem, demographics) predicted the outcome variable (career planning/exploration) at T1; (b) whether the T1 predictor variables predicted the outcome variable at T2; (c) whether the T1 predictor variables predicted change in the outcome variable from T1-T2; and (d) whether changes in the predictor variables from T1-T2 predicted change in the outcome variable from T1-T2. Strong associations (R(2)=34%) were identified for the T1 analysis (confidence, ability and paid work experience were positively associated with career planning/exploration). T1 variables were less useful predictors of career planning/exploration at T2 (R(2)=9%; having more confidence at T1 was associated with more career planning/exploration at T2) and change in career planning/exploration from T1-T2 (R(2)=11%; less confidence and no work experience were associated with change in career planning/exploration from T1-T2). When testing effect of changes in predictor variables predicting changes in outcome variable (R(2)=22%), three important predictors, indecision, work experience and confidence, were identified. Overall, results indicated important roles for self-efficacy and early work experiences in current and future career planning/exploration of high school students.
Creed
Peter A
PA
School of Psychology and Service Industry Research Centre, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia. p.creed@griffith.edu.au <p.creed@griffith.edu.au>
Patton
Wendy
W
Prideaux
Lee-Ann
LA
D000293:Adolescent; D002321:Career Choice; D003657:Decision Making; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012919:Social Behavior; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors