Abstract
M.A.
Young adults who are entering the world of work are facing increasing challenges,
resulting in elevated levels of employment uncertainty and anxiety. Many of these
challenges are due to the continuously changing work environment, which is
buffeted by the socio-political and economic climate - both in and outside South
Africa. Other challenges could be related to factors such as lack of confidence,
decision making difficulties, dissatisfaction with career choice and difficulties with
social networking. As a result of such challenges young adults may perceive career
barriers that would have an impact on their career development. These challenges
could be influenced by an individual’s personality traits.
The purpose of this study was to ascertain the career barriers most perceived by
young adults. The study also aimed to assess whether any relationship exists
between personality traits and perceived career barriers. The sample consisted of
193 participants from two universities in South Africa. Each participant completed a
biographical data questionnaire, the Basic Traits Inventory- Short Form and the
Career Barriers Inventory-Revised.
The three highest standardised mean scores for the perceived career barrier
scales were Racial Discrimination (M = 4.90), Dissatisfaction with Career (M =
4.56) and Sex Discrimination (M = 4.49). Examination of the individual personality
traits in relation to perceived career barriers was done through the use of
Pearson’s product-moment correlations. Extroversion yielded statistically
significant negative correlations with the following perceived career barriers:
Decision–Making Difficulties (r = -0.241; p < 0.01) and Inadequate Preparation (r =
-0.149; p < 0.05). Conscientiousness showed a statistically significant positive
relationship with Sex Discrimination (r = 0.274; p < 0.01). The results also indicated
a statistically significant positive correlation between Agreeableness and Job
Market Constraints (r = 0.166; p < 0.05).
This study has implications for career guidance counsellors in their endeavours to
provide a comprehensive service to young adults who have difficulties overcoming
perceived career barriers.