SOCIO-CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING YOUTH CAREER CHOICES: A STUDY IN CHANDIGARH

Career decisions taken during youth often have long-lasting implications on personal, social, and professional outcomes. This study explores the socio-cultural and economic factors that influence career choices among youth aged 15 to 24 in Chandigarh. Drawing from qualitative in-depth interviews with 30 participants from diverse backgrounds and coaching centers across Chandigarh, the research reveals that parental influence, peer pressure, socio-economic status, caste background, and settlement aspirations (domestic vs. abroad) are significant in shaping decisions. Findings highlight that convenience, family expectations, and financial stability are pivotal determinants. The study emphasizes the need for structured career counselling frameworks to guide youth through informed choices. The findings are exploratory and not generalizable to the entire youth population of Chandigarh.