The Mediating Role of Optimism in the Effect of Perceived Social Support on Career Decidedness

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of the study is to determine the effect of perceived social support and optimism on career decidedness and whether the optimism variable plays a mediating role in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach – Questionnaire technique, which is one of the quantitative research methods, was used in this research.The sample of the research consists of the students of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences at Süleyman Demirel University. In this context, a face to face survey was conducted with convenience sampling method on a voluntary basis and data were collected from 407 people. The obtained data were analyzed through SPSS and AMOS programs, and structural equation modeling was carried out in order to reveal the effect values and directions of the variables between each other. Findings – According to the results of the research, it has been seen that the support of friends and partner support, which are the dimensions of perceived social support, have a direct and positive effect on career decidedness. However, with the inclusion of the optimism variable in the research model, it was found that the direct relationship between them became meaningless and the optimism variable showed a full mediating role. Discussion – As a result of the research, the effects of two environmental and psychological variables affecting career decidedness were determined and the results were evaluated within the framework of these effects. It can be stated that individuals who could be optimistic thanks to their perceived social support are more determined about their careers and they take firm steps forward in their careers. In this context, it is considered that individuals who are at the decision making stage about their careers should be in a relationship that can receive support from their social environment and their levels of optimism should not damaged. It is thought that the supportive activities that universities will exhibit in this field will support individuals in their career decidedness.