Exploring factors that influence the career decision making process of third year psychology students at the University of Pretoria using an Ecological Systems Theory Framework

Abstract

Career choice is a difficult and confusing decision that young adults face across the world. In this dissertation, the researcher gauged the voices and experiences of young adults in their third year of study in Psychology at the University of Pretoria, through semi-structured interviews conducted online via the Zoom platform. A total of 10 participants were used for the interviews. A Qualitative approach was used, utilising Hermeneutic Phenomenology and Thematic Analysis to analyse the data. Using an Ecological Systems Theoretical framework, results were located at the Microsystem, Mesosystem, Exosystem and the Macrosystem. These results built on existing literature, as well as, provided new insights into the decision making processes and the modern working environments of Millennials and Gen Z’s. The results of this study will provide career counsellors and schools with a deeper understanding of young adults’ career decision making processes. Information collated could aid in development of programmes to inform career development interventions at the different systemic levels, as well as, courses and provide accurate advice suited to the individual.