Metaphoric perceptions of Turkish students on career decision-making self-efficacies and career expectations

The purpose of this study was to explore how gender, age, school type, grade level, residence, family income, family size, and parents’ education level influence students’ career decision-making self-efficacy. Additionally, the current study sought to uncover the metaphors high school students (HSS) use to articulate their perceptions of career decision-making and future career expectations, and how these metaphors reflect key constructs of the Social Cognitive Career Theory. The study involved 308 HSS and utilized an explanatory mixed-method research design. The results indicated a significant difference in the collection of career-related information and mean scores by school type. It was found that HSS perceived a high level of self-efficacy and career barriers concerning their career decision-making and future career. Another finding was that negative environmental factors create a sense of uncertainty in students’ expectations. The findings pointed to the need for counseling services to navigate students’ career decisions effectively.