Reciprocal relations between self-esteem, class engagement, and career calling: evidence from a two‐wave longitudinal study

Abstract This study aims to longitudinally investigate the relationships between self-esteem, class engagement, and career calling. A total of 161 university students were included in the final sample. Data were obtained using the Two-Dimensional Self-Esteem Scale, General Class Engagement Scale, and Career Calling Scale. The cross-lagged panel model revealed the paths (for indirect effects models and autoregressive) between self-esteem, class engagement, and career calling. The cross-lagged panel model demonstrated an acceptable fit with the data. The cross-lagged effect of self-esteem at time 1 on class engagement at time 2 was positive and significant. Furthermore, the cross-lagged effect of class engagement at time 1 on career calling at time 2 was positive and significant. Finally, all these results would support the longitudinal mediation effect of class engagement in the relationship between self-esteem and career calling.