Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose: This study identifies the emotional state of apprentices, one of the critical areas. Despite its importance, vocational training has received little research. We designed this study to focus on the unique stressors and mental health challenges encountered. Apprentices carry out academic and on-the-job training responsibilities. Materials: The paper is a mixed-methods analysis of 309 apprentices from three universities carried out by a structured questionnaire. We also conducted a search for over ten research articles. We based the questionnaire on validated psychological scales. The questionnaire encompassed various dimensions of well-being, including psychological, social, workplace, emotional, and subjective aspects. Results: Apprentices encounter significant emotional challenges. Even though the dual pressure from the workplace and their studies remained, the psychological, social, and workplace well-being scores were significantly higher than average. This suggests that apprentices possess resilience and adaptability. Emotional well-being also the results were positive, showing no significant differences across genders. The emotions associated with these states of emotional well-being differed. Most of these differences depended on the course the respondent was enrolled in; however, these differences were minor. Research Limitations: The primary weaknesses of this study stem from the limited sample size of 309 apprentices. three universities, which might hamper generalizability. Alone, it may not capture all nuanced experiences while using questionnaires, and the narrow age range of 19–22 years limits the details of understanding the experiences of older apprentices. Findings: The findings suggest a more coordinated approach to mental health care in apprenticeship schemes, with implications for practice. The presence of increased mentorship, precise, robust feedback mechanisms, and supportive environments could minimise these stressors and maximise the well-being of apprentices. These should be considered by policymakers and built into any apprenticeship frameworks designed by educational institutions. Originality: The current research will try to fill one of those gaps in the literature and, Therefore, become original in focusing on apprentices' well-being. Usually, this area has gone largely unnoticed, with the focus being on students or employee mental health. This approach is particularly innovative as it offers empirical evidence. evidence for the well-being of apprentices and, by this, offers the most invaluable insights in designing strategies that support this unique group to ensure their flourishing in both professional and personal lives.
Author: Zehra Zulfikar
Institution: Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University
Language: English
Topic: Student Stress and Coping
Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7220940981