Emotion regulation strategy mediates the relationship between goal orientation and job search behavior among university seniors

This study aimed to study the relationship between goal orientation and job search behavior in combination with emotion regulation strategies and job search self-efficacy. In total, 1639 seniors completed the Goal Orientation Scale, Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, Job Search Self-Efficacy Scale, and Job Search Behavior Scale. Results showed that mastery goal and performance-approach goal showed both direct and indirect positive predictions for job search behavior, while performance-avoidance goal showed indirect negative prediction for job search behavior. Cognitive reappraisal strategy showed indirect positive prediction for job search behavior. In addition, job search self-efficacy positively predicted job search behavior. Moreover, cognitive reappraisal strategy and job search self-efficacy mediated the relationships between goal orientation and job search behavior. This finding expanded existing research by clarifying the mechanism underlying the relationship between goal orientation and job search behavior. This study also provided implications for job search behavior interventions with university students.