A Meta-Analysis of Variables Related to College Students' Career Stress

Objectives The purpose of this study is to comprehensively organize the relationship between career stress and related variables through meta-analysis. Methods For this purpose, a meta-analysis was conducted using the R statistical program, examining a total of 44 papers on variables influencing career stress, drawn from domestic academic journals and master's and doctoral theses over a span of approximately 24 years, from 2000 to March 2024. Results 44 papers related to career stress were selected, and 15 variables were extracted. The effect size of factors related to career stress was analyzed by classifying them into psychological factors and career-related factors. Psychological factors affecting career stress were found to be, in order: lack of tolerance for uncertainty, depression/anxiety, socially prescribed perfectionism, and grit. Career-related factors affecting career stress were found to be, in order: career barriers, career indecision, career goal mismatch, and career decision level. Conclusions The analysis results confirmed that psychological factors and career-related factors have a significant impact on college students' career stress. Therefore, it is expected that strengthening psychological resources along with systematic career counseling and support programs will be necessary to reduce career stress among college students.