Work

The Effects of Pre‐Entry Career Maturity and Support Networks in Workplace on Newcomers' Mental Health

Year: 2006

Type: article

Abstract: The present study examined the effects of pre-entry experiences (i.e. career maturity), as well as support networks (i.e. informational and friendship), on newcomers' mental health (i.e. depression, self-esteem, psychosomatic symptoms, and work motivation). We performed a longitudinal study of 890 men and women who first entered the workplace in 2003. Surveys were distributed at two time points: just prior to entering the workplace, and two months after entering. Results indicated that career maturity related positively to newcomers' mental health, and newcomers with high career maturity were more successful in establishing positive relationships with superiors and co-workers. Although, informational support networks positively related to work motivation, friendship networks did not show any direct effects on mental health. These results underscore the crucial roles of career maturity and informational networks in facilitating the transition to the workplace. The results also provide empirical support for an expanded view of the importance of pre-entry experiences to workplace newcomers' mental health.

Source: Journal of Occupational Health

DOI: 10.1539/joh.48.451

Authors: Kaoru Kawai, Yoshihiko Yamazaki

Institution: The University of Tokyo

Language: English

Topic: Career Development and Diversity

Subfield: Applied Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology