International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Internal Factors Affecting High School Students’ Career Choices: A Literature Review

This study conducts a systematic literature review to systematize and deeply analyze the theoretical models and concepts of core internal factors influencing high school students’ career choices. Driven by the recognized limitations in career guidance and the fragmented theoretical analysis of intrinsic variables, the systematic literature review methodology was used to synthesize reputable academic literature from 1980 onwards. The review focused on eight key internal factors: personality, interests, ability perception, vocational values, self-awareness, self-efficacy, career goals, and life and learning experiences. The analysis confirmed the central and determining role of these factors in vocational identity and decision-making. Key findings highlight that the alignment between internal traits and occupational demands is critical for job satisfaction and commitment. Specifically, self-awareness acts as the crucial meta-factor regulating accurate self-assessment, while self-efficacy and career goals serve as powerful motivators for proactive exploration and persistence. This research contributes an integrated theoretical framework clarifying the complex interplay of these factors. The findings imply that career guidance must prioritize self-awareness development and self-efficacy enhancement, coupled with real-world experiences. This framework provides a solid scientific foundation for future empirical studies and the design of more effective intervention programs for high school students.