Connecting the dots: How parent support shapes career readiness through psychological capital

Abstract

Orientation: In the digital era, adolescence is a critical stage in individual career readiness.

Research purpose: This study has numerous goals. Firstly, this study investigates the impact of parental support on individual career readiness. Secondly, this study examines the role of psychological capital as a mediator between parental support and individual career readiness. Thirdly, this study analyses the role of individual trait personality as a moderator between parental support and individual career readiness.

Motivation for the study: This research can contribute to a better understanding of how parents can best support their children in preparing for successful careers. By understanding the role of psychological capital and personality traits, this research can help individuals develop a more holistic approach to career development. This can lead to increased career satisfaction and success.

Research approach/design and method: This study used a quantitative approach to examine the career readiness of individuals (final year undergraduate students) before entering the job market (N = 418), which was processed using SPSS PROCESS.

Main findings: This study shows parental support influences individual career readiness. Psychological capital fully mediated the relationship between parent support and individual career readiness. The influence of parental support on individual job readiness is moderated by extroverted personality and conscientiousness. Meanwhile, emotional stability does not moderate the influence of parental support on individual career readiness.

Practical/managerial implications: Parental support can be a meaningful mechanism to enhance career readiness among adolescents through psychological support.

Contribution/value-add: The use of social career cognitive theory (SCCT) and trait activation theory (TAT) to uncover the function of mediating and moderating variables is expanded in this study to examine career readiness. This study is important because it examines the role of parental support in nations where it is prevalent.