Predicting Changes in Vocational Exploration: The Role of Parental Behaviors and Family Characteristics

• In Event: 18.019 - Approaches to Enhancing College Access and Career Development

Abstract

In this study, parents’ contribution to their child’s vocational exploration was examined from a self-determination perspective through need supportive behaviors. We aimed to identify and describe trajectories of vocational exploration from mid-adolescence to early adulthood. Results from latent class analyses revealed that vocational exploration was heterogeneous, where three distinct developmental patterns were identified. Parents’ need supportive behaviors predicted trajectory group membership, and belonging to the optimal trajectory of vocational exploration. Also, family characteristics (e.g., family structure, SES, mother’s education), reunited under a risk score, predicted trajectory’s membership where higher risk predicted being in the optimal trajectory and lower risk predicted being in the low exploration trajectory. Results have important scientific and practical implications for youths’ vocational exploration and development.

Authors

• Émilie Gagnon, Université Laval

• Catherine Ratelle, Université Laval

• Genevieve Boisclair Chateauvert, Université Laval

• Stephane Duchesne, Université Laval

• Frederic Guay, Université Laval