Papers from the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology Conferences
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Using the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) framework through a culturally sensitive perspective, this study investigated the several elements affecting the career aspirations of Indonesian college students. Acknowledging the notable disparity in applying SCCT in collectivist, non-Western settings like Indonesia where familial and cultural influences are prominent, the study used a qualitative design with a mixed-format questionnaire (rating scales followed by open-ended reasons) administered to 133 undergraduate students at Universitas Diponegoro. Complementing descriptive rating summaries, thematic study of the qualitative data revealed a complex interaction of elements. One of the main conclusions was the widespread and multifarious influence of family, which shows up as both pressure shaped by collectivist values and support. Participants showed how dynamically they negotiated personal autonomy within social norms. Other important elements were the variable impact of educational and learning experiences (especially practical ones), the function of role models and social comparison, participation in information seeking, the relevance of personal traits and intrinsic motivation, and the influence of socioeconomic reality. These results show how greatly cultural dynamics shape the expression and interaction of SCCT constructions in the Indonesian setting. The study emphasizes the great need of culturally sensitive career counseling and educational programs in Indonesia addressing the difficulties of juggling personal aspirations with group obligations.
ScholarWorks Citation
Qonitatin, N. & Sawitri, D. R. (2025). Career Aspirations of Indonesian College Students: A Social Cognitive Career Theory Perspective Through a Cultural Lens. Okvitawanli, A., Friedlmeier, W., & Bhangaokar, R. (Eds.). Globalization in Context. Proceedings from the 27th Congress of the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology. http://doi.org/10.4087/FTAP6497
Acknowledgments
Novi Qonitatin https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8306-3255
Dian Ratna Sawitri https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3446-6362
We have no conflicts of interest to disclose. We thank Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Diponegoro for funding this research.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Novi Qonitatin, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Diponegoro, Prof. Mr. Sunario Street, Tembalang, Semarang, Indonesia. Email: qonitatin@gmail.com