SOC Strategies and Job Search Clarity as Serial Mediators Between Social Support and Career Decision-making Difficulties in University Students

Chaoran Yang; Yuting Han

doi:10.6918/IJOSSER.202611_9(11).0019

Authors

Chaoran Yang Cognitive Science and Allied Health School, Beijing Language and Culture University, Beijing, 100083, China
Yuting Han Cognitive Science and Allied Health School, Beijing Language and Culture University, Beijing, 100083, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6918/IJOSSER.202611_9(11).0019

Keywords:

Social support; Career decision-making difficulties; SOC strategies; Job search clarity; University students.

Abstract

This study investigates the mediating roles of selection, optimization, and compensation (SOC) strategies and job search clarity in the relationship between perceived social support and career decision-making difficulties. Data were collected from 406 Chinese university students (including 316 undergraduates and 90 master’s students). A serial mediation model was tested using PROCESS Model 6, while controlling for seven demographic covariates. Perceived social support was negatively associated with career decision-making difficulties. The direct effect was not statistically significant after both mediators were included. The serial indirect effect through SOC strategies and job search clarity was negative and statistically significant. The specific indirect effects through each mediator were also statistically significant. The findings suggest that students with higher levels of perceived social support tend to report more active goal management, clearer job search plans, and fewer career decision-making difficulties.

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