Career indecision: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Purpose Research has been conducted to investigate the factors that influence career indecision. This study attempted to synthesize empirical research on career indecision to (1) find the common determinants over the last two decades and (2) find the factors/areas that need to be addressed for future research on career indecision. Design/methodology/approach This study used the systematic literature review (SLR) methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Following the predetermined inclusion criteria, 118 articles from the Scopus database were included for review. Findings From this research, the authors found four main determinants for career indecision, namely (1) career-related decision-making difficulties, (2) adolescent differences, (3) individual and situational career decision-making profiles (CDMPs) and (4) level of individual readiness for career choice, which have been researched in the last two decades. Additionally, eight factors/areas were found to be addressed in future research on career indecision which include those four common determinants, the other three determinants, namely (1) individual differences, (2) contextual/environmental factors, (3) social factors, and one outcome, subjective well-being. Research limitations/implications The study had limitations in conducting this research, and the findings of the study provide some theoretical and future research implications. Practical implications The seven determinants and the only outcome provide some implications for practitioners and policymakers. Originality/value The study found seven determinants and one outcome of career indecision derived from empirical studies conducted during 2000–2021.