The Impact of Nursing Students' Career Decision Self-Efficacy and Future Time Perspective on Job Preparation Behavior

Objectives The purposes of this study is to examine the relationship between nursing students' career decision self-efficacy, future time perspective, and job preparation behavior, as well as to identify the factors influencing job preparation behavior. Methods A convenience sample of 137 fourth-year nursing students from two universities in Chungcheong Province was surveyed using a structured questionnaire between May and June 2023. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis. Results Career decision self-efficacy varied according to age and major satisfaction, while future time perspective and job preparation behavior differed based on major satisfaction. A positive correlation was observed between career decision self-efficacy and future time perspective (r=.29, p<.001), as well as between career decision self-efficacy (r=.41, p<.001) and job preparation behavior. The primary factor influencing job preparation behavior was career decision self-efficacy. Conclusions This study confirmed that career decision self-efficacy is a major factor influencing job preparation behavior among nursing students. It is necessary to provide programs that enhance self-efficacy, especially for students with low major satisfaction, to support their job preparation behavior.