Effect of Locus of Control, Work Knowledge, and Mentoring on Career Decision-Making Difficulties: Testing the Role of Race and Academic Institution

Abstract

Knowledge of the working world and career locus of control are associated with career decision making. Racial minorities may experience an external locus of career control and greater career decision-making concerns resulting from limited exposure to mentors or other sources of career information. Access to information may be facilitated by academic setting type, with smaller colleges facilitating career decision making. The present study explored racial and academic type group differences on career locus of control, career-related mentoring, and workrelated knowledge. African American students reported greater work knowledge but a more external locus of control than White students did. Race and type of academic institution did not moderate the relationships between locus of control, work knowledge, and career decision-making difficulties. An external career locus of control was associated with decision-making difficulties; however, White students reported greater career decision-making difficulty. Clinical implications for addressing career locus of control are presented.