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Adolescent Work Experience and Self-efficacy
Keith A Cunnien1, Nicole Martinrogers, Jeylan T Mortimer
1Life Course Center, University of Minnesota.
The International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy
|September 15, 2009
Summary
Adolescent work experiences significantly impact self-efficacy. Steady employment and supportive supervisors boost confidence, while sporadic work can hinder it, affecting future life domains.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Sociology of Youth
Background:
- Adolescence is a critical period for developing self-efficacy.
- Work experiences during high school may shape future confidence and life skills.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between high school work experiences and adolescent self-efficacy.
- To determine if different types of work (steady vs. sporadic) have varying effects.
- To explore the role of supervisory support in this relationship.
Main Methods:
- Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regressions were employed.
- Longitudinal data from the Youth Development Study were analyzed.
- Key variables included work experience characteristics and self-efficacy measures.
Main Results:
- Employment generally fosters self-efficacy across multiple domains.
- Steady employment is linked to higher self-efficacy compared to occasional or sporadic work.
- Supervisory support is particularly crucial for enhancing adolescent confidence in future life areas.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent work experiences have a demonstrable impact on self-efficacy, extending to family, community, and personal health.
- Policies should encourage steady employment and positive supervisory relationships for adolescents.
- Sporadic work patterns may negatively affect self-efficacy development during adolescence.
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