Perceived Parental Involvement of Adolescents with Physical Disability in their Career Development

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the parental involvement in the career development of adolescents who are physically handicapped. The children were at their early adolescent stages between 17 to 19 years of age. An interview guide was developed based on empirical and theoretical literature in which social cognitive career theory (SCCT) was kept in consideration. The interview guide was developed based on three aspect of career development i.e. career interests, career choices and career success. A total of 12 participants participated in the study. Semi structured interviews were used to collect the data. The data analysis adopted for the study was thematic which was done following Braun & Clarke approach (2006). NVivo 12 pro was also used as an analytic tool. The study showed that majority of the parents lack their involvement in career interests and career choices of adolescents with physical disability, but on the same side parents want them to maintain career success. The study showed that the involvement of parents is high when they have information or knowledge regarding career interests and career choices. Parental participation was found to influence the development of careers of adolescents by being encouraging and motivational. Based on findings, the study recommended the role of parental involvement can be studied by taking their perspectives, other than the adolescents. Selection of more than one institute can be helpful in establishing the nature of the findings. There should be more parental awareness sessions by the institution where in PTM parents can be informed and guided about the possible opportunities that their children can opt in future.