The role of career anxiety and career construction behaviors in predicting career adaptability: 11th grade and 12th grade sample

The purpose of this study examines the role of career anxiety and career construction behaviors in predicting career adjustment of high school 11th grade and high school 12th grade students. The research model is the relational screening model. The research group consists of 558 students studying at Anatolian High School, Science High School, Imam Hatip High School and Social Sciences High School in Şırnak city center. The data was analyzed through Personal Information Form, Career Adaptation Scale, Career Anxiety Scale, and Student Career Configuration Inventory. The data was analyzed by using SPSS 26 package program. Independent sample t-test and one-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to determine whether the variables in the study differed according to demographic variables; multiple regression analysis was used to determine whether career anxiety and career structuring predicted career adjustment. According to the results of the study, career adaptation varies according to gender and academic achievement, but not according to income level, grade level and school type. Among the demographic variables, career anxiety differed only according to gender, while career structuring behaviors differed only according to income level. According to the regression analysis, it was concluded that career anxiety predicted career adaptation negatively and significantly, while career structuring predicted career adaptation positively and significantly. Research findings were compared and discussed with similar results in the literature. Suggestions were made for researchers and practice. Based on the research results, comparison studies can be made an suggestions have been made for vocational guidance activities to be carried out in high school. In addition, suggestions were made to ensure equal opportunity in education for high school students. One of the suggestions made regarding the research results is to investigate the possible reason for the high career anxiety of female students.