An examination of future anxiety among vocational school students in relation to sociodemographic variables

Abstract Aim This study aimed to examine future anxiety among vocational school students and to determine whether its dimensions differ according to sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. Materials and methods This descriptive cross-sectional study included 255 vocational school students aged 18–35 years. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic Data Form and the Future Anxiety Scale in University Students. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the total scale was .93 in the present study. Descriptive statistics, independent-samples t tests, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used for data analysis Results The mean total Future Anxiety Scale score was 55.47 ± 15.26. Significant differences were observed in selected dimensions of future anxiety according to age, marital status, economic status, regular hobby engagement, regular exercise, family financial support, academic department, and dietary habits. Poor perceived economic status was associated with higher Fear of the Future and Hopelessness About the Future scores. Conclusion Selected sociodemographic, economic, and lifestyle characteristics were associated with specific dimensions of future anxiety among vocational school students. The findings highlight the importance of psychosocial and career-support services for students experiencing economic and future-related uncertainty.