The Chain Mediating Effect of Network Behavior and Decision Self-Efficacy between Work Skills and Perceived Employability Based on Social Cognitive Theory

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the chain mediating effects of networking behaviors and decision self-efficacy between work skills development and perceived employability. Structural equations modeling is used to analyze data collected from 813 Chinese students. The results show the following: first, the work skills development is positively correlated with perceived employability. Second, network behavior and decision self-efficacy each have a mediating effect between work skills development and perceived employability. Finally, this study found a chain mediating effect of network behavior and decision self-efficacy between work skills development and perceived employability. Therefore, this research shows that Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) needs to focus not only on skills development and employability outcomes but also on developing a strong network-based platform for stakeholders. In addition, higher education institutions and workplaces should also provide career guidance and counseling centers to help students build confidence in career decision-making and ensure students’ mental health care and healthy career development.