The relationship between career indecision and family dynamics among African matriculants : application of the circumplex model.

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between career indecision and family dynamics among matriculants. The sample was drawn from two high schools in, an African township. The Olson Circumplex model of Marital and Family Systems was applied to test various types of family relations and how they would influence career decisiveness. Career indecision is, therefore, the independent variable with the two dimensions of family relations (cohesion and adaptability) as given in the model as primary predictor variables. Other variables that were tested were exposure to career information as determined by the differences between the two schools, and gender differences. ,The My vocational Situation (MVS), the Career Decision Scale (CDS) and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale III (FACES III) were used as instruments of measurement. Multiple regression and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were used as methods of statistical analysis. Significant differences were found between subjects from the two ·schools. Findings indicate that exposure to career information is a strong determinant of career decisiveness. It was also found that career identity is highly correlated with career decisiveness. Differences were also found between male and female participants particularly in the measures of career indecision, career identity and occupational information, with boys being more decisive than girls. Family adaptability was demonstrated to have a weak correlation with career indecision while no statistically significant relationship was demonstrated between family cohesion and career indecision. Recommendations in this study are that career counselling in the schools needs to be introduced and intensified. Career information given to pupils should also be integrated for them to assist them achieve career identity. Research has demonstrated that there is a strong relationship between career development and family dynamics. Results of this study~ however, demonstrate a weak relationship. This brings up questions about the Circumplex 'model applied in this study and the FACES III as an instrument used to test it. Further research is recommended in this area.