A Study on Self-directedness, Career Motivation, and Career Preparation Behaviors of Students at Specialized Beauty High Schools

This study aimed to examine the correlations among self-directedness, career motivation, and career preparation behaviors of students at specialized beauty high schools and to suggest directions for career education. The results are as follows. The sub-factors of self-directedness in specialized beauty high schools responsibility/autonomy, openness, self-confidence, and learning attachment were statistically significantly positively correlated with the sub-factors of career motivation career identity, career insight, and career resilience. They were also statistically significantly positively correlated with the sub-factors of career preparation behavior practical effort, tool preparation, and information gathering. Furthermore, the sub-factors of career motivation career identity, career insight, and career resilience were statistically significantly positively correlated with the sub-factors of career preparation behavior practical effort, tool preparation, and information gathering. Based on the research findings, the following recommendations are made regarding career education for beauty high school students. First, self-directedness should be recognized as a crucial factor in developing career competencies, and career preparation should be actively demonstrated through action. Second, career experience opportunities should be provided from early grades to clearly establish and strengthen career motivation, thereby alleviating psychological fears about career choices. Third, a roadmap for career success should be established to foster a clear sense of career goals and encourage career preparation behaviors. Career programs and counseling services should be continuously developed and implemented. Furthermore, systematic educational interventions are needed to ensure that self-directedness and career motivation lead to positive career preparation behaviors.