A Study on the Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Locus of Control in Career Decision Making: The Case in Nifas Silk Poly Technic College
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Date
2025
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between general self-efficacy (GSE) and locus of control (LOC) and career decision-making (CDM) among students at Nifas Silk Polytechnic College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Guided by Bandura’s social-cognitive theory and Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), the study sought to determine the extent to which these psychological factors predict students’ ability to make effective career choices. A descriptive–correlational research design was employed, and data were collected from 310 randomly selected TVET students using validated scales for GSE, LOC, and CDM. Descriptive statistics revealed that 63.2% of students had moderate CDM, while 61.6% reported low GSE. Correlation analysis using Spearman’s rho indicated a significant positive relationship between GSE and CDM (r = .477, p < .001) and a weaker but significant positive relationship between LOC and CDM (r = .167, p = .003). Multiple regression analysis showed that the model including GSE and LOC was significant (F(2,307) = 94.43, p < .001), explaining 38.1% of the variance in CDM. GSE emerged as the strongest predictor of CDM (β = .610, p < .001), whereas LOC was not a significant predictor (β = .064, p = .155). The findings highlight the central role of self-efficacy in shaping students’ career decision-making skills and suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing students’ self-efficacy may improve their career planning and outcomes. The study recommends integrating self-efficacy–building strategies and career guidance services into TVET programs to better prepare students for future employment.
Keywords: Career Decision-Making; General Self-Efficacy; Locus of Control; Career Guidance
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Keywords
Career Decision-Making, General Self-Efficacy, Locus of Control, Career Guidance