The role of time perspective in social cognitive career theory of interests

Although social cognitive career theory has been tested in relation to Holland's RIASEC types, few studies have examined the role of time perspective across RIASEC themes. Four hundred and thirty-five students participated in this study. Data were collected on the time perspective dimensions, learning experiences, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and interests across each of the RIASEC areas identified by Holland. The findings, besides a substantial confirmation of SCCT foreknown causal relationships, indicated a significant role of present-hedonistic and future temporal perspectives in Investigative and Social areas. The results evidenced the role of time perspective among persons' inputs influencing self-efficacy and outcome expectations in the social cognitive framework of interests' formation.