Basic psychological need satisfaction and job search intensity in Chinese college students: A moderated mediation model

Based on self-determination theory, this study examined how basic psychological need satisfaction influenced job search intensity among Chinese graduating college students. A two-wave longitudinal survey was conducted with a sample of 244 graduating students (50.4% female; mean age = 21.44 years, SD = 0.85). Data were collected using the Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale, the Goal Orientation Scale, the College Students’ Job Search Stress Scale, and the Job Search Behavior Scale. The results showed that higher basic psychological need satisfaction predicted greater job search intensity, and this relationship was partially mediated by stronger mastery goal orientation. However, the positive association was weakened under conditions of high job search stress. These findings highlight the interplay between internal motivation and external stress in shaping job search behavior, extending our understanding of the drivers of job-searching efforts and offering practical implications for supporting students during the transition to employment.