Title | Antecedents of Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Among International Students in Japan: A Cross-Cultural Perspective |
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| Publication Name | Asia Pacific Career Development Journal, Vol 9, No 2 |
| Publication Date | September, 2026 |
| Download | Full text (PDF) |
| Abstract | Grounded in social cognitive career theory and cross-cultural adjustment frameworks, cultural intelligence (CQ) and cross-cultural adjustment are expected to be positively associated with international students’ career development during school-to-work transitions. However, the underlying mechanism of this association remains unclear. This study examines how CQ relates to career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) through interaction adjustment among international students in Japan. An online survey was conducted with 91 international undergraduate students in Japan. Mediation analysis indicated that interaction adjustment mediated the positive relationship between CQ and CDMSE. The direct effect of CQ on CDMSE was positive but did not reach statistical significance after accounting for the mediating role of interaction adjustment. These findings suggest that CQ’s association with CDMSE is closely associated with interpersonal experiences in the host culture. The results also provide theoretical insights into the intercultural foundations of career development and practical implications for supporting international students in their career transitions. |