Examining Predictors of Work Volition Among Undergraduate Students

Abstract

The present article examined predictors of work volition, or the perception of control in one’s future career decision making, with two samples of undergraduate students. Building from the Psychology of Working Framework, in Study 1, a hierarchical regression analysis was conducted examining four classes of potential predictors: demographic characteristics, positive affect, sense of control, and career barriers. Social class, sense of control, and career barriers were significant predictors of work volition. In Study 2, a new sample of undergraduate students were surveyed at two time points to examine the temporal relation of work volition with social class, sense of control, and career barriers. Structural equation modeling was used to construct a cross-lagged model. Time 2 work volition was predicted by Time 1 social class and career barriers. Additionally, Time 1 work volition predicted Time 2 career barriers and general sense of control. Implications for practice are discussed.