Stress in Fresh Graduates Who Have a Hard Time Finding a Job

Psychological stress among fresh graduates struggling to find employment is a significant issue in Indonesia. This study employed a qualitative research method with a phenomenological approach to explore the psychological stress experiences and coping strategies of unemployed young graduates. The three participants, all male and aged 24, shared their subjective experiences through semi-structured interviews and participant observations. Thematic analysis using NVivo 12 Pro identified the key stressors, including high job market expectations, lack of experience, and pressures from social and family environments. The study found that participants viewed job-seeking challenges as both threats and opportunities, often exacerbated by unrealistic job requirements. Furthermore, the findings indicated two primary coping strategies: problem-focused coping, such as skill development, internships, and entrepreneurial initiatives; and emotion-focused coping, including recreational activities and social support. The combination of these coping strategies proved effective in managing stress.