Application of My Systems of Career Influences (Adolescent) in Japan: Reflection processes and responses among college students

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the qualitative career assessment tool, “My Systems of Career Influences (Adolescent)” in Japan and future challenges. We conducted seven career education sessions using the MSCI with 19 Japanese college students. In a questionnaire survey administered to the students after these sessions, the average score for the “Significance of MSCI” (7-point scale) was 5.58 (SD: .84), indicating that the tool can be effectively applied to college students in Japan. Two challenges were identified with regard to its application in Japan: 1) Identifying the factors that make it difficult to recognize the influences at the Environmental-Societal Level and developing support approaches; and 2) Developing support approaches that take into account the mindsets of Japanese adolescents, who, in comparison with their peers in other countries, tend to feel less optimistic about their future and feel that they have less control over their lives.