International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Family Influences on High School Students’ Career Choices: A Literature Review

This study conducts a systematic literature review to systematize and critically analyze theoretical models and key concepts related to family influences on high school students’ career choices. Motivated by persistent limitations in career guidance practices and the fragmented nature of research on family-related factors, a systematic literature review methodology was employed to synthesize reputable academic publications from 1996 onward. 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.