Significance of Perceived Social Support for Career Decision Self Efficacy-A Co-relational Study

Abstract

Background: An individual’s career competence depends profoundly on his career decision self-efficacy. In this regard, social support plays a substantial role during the process of career decision making for a person. Considering its impact on the decision making, the current study aimed at finding the relationship between Perceived Social Support (PSS) and Career Decision Self-efficacy (CDSE) among university students. 

Methods: By using non probability sampling technique, 500 students (190 males, 310 females) were selected for their participation in this research. Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and Career Decision Self-efficacy scale were used for computing PSS and CDSE.

Results: Results showed that female students benefitted more from PSS in comparison to male respondents. However no significant gender differences were revealed regarding CDSE. Regression analysis was done to envisage the CDSS by PSS which revealed that PSS contributes to forecast up to 12% of the CDSE.

Implications: Current study will be advantageous for counselors and educationist by sensitizing them to consider the role of social support in career decision making among the individuals whom they deal with.

Conclusions: This study recommended that females possess more perceived social support as compared to males. It also found that there is positive association perceived social support  and career decision self-efficacy among university students.