Adolescents with strong life purpose report greater career maturity

Abstract

In this study, we examined the role of sense of life purpose (awakening to purpose, awareness of purpose, and altruistic purpose) in career maturity (concern, curiosity, confidence, and consultation) among adolescents (N = 234). Adolescents with a strong awareness of purpose reported high career curiosity, high career confidence, and low career consultation. Adolescents with altruistic purpose reported high career concern but low career confidence. Awakening to purpose, on the other hand, did not significantly contribute to career maturity. Overall, findings suggest the importance of providing support as adolescents explore various career options within the context of their life's purpose.