Predicting Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy through HEXACO Personality Traits in Young Adults

Abstract

This research investigated associations between personality characteristics as measured by the HEXACO model and career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) in young adults. Using a quantitative correlational design, 170 participants aged 18 to 25 years were recruited from the National Capital Region of India (Delhi) and completed two validated self-report instruments: the HEXACO-60 Personality Inventory and the Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS through descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression.

Results revealed significant positive associations between CDMSE and three HEXACO dimensions: Extraversion (r = .46, p < .001), Conscientiousness (r = .45, p < .001), and Openness to Experience (r = .22, p = .005). Multiple regression analysis confirmed that these three traits were each significant positive predictors of CDMSE (R² = .31, F = 12.32, p < .001). Honesty-Humility, Emotionality, and Agreeableness did not significantly predict CDMSE. These findings suggest that personality characteristics meaningfully influence career decision-making confidence in young Indian adults and highlight the importance of incorporating personality assessment into career counselling and educational support interventions.