Parentification and general family dysfunctionality as criteria for choosing an occupation

Abstract

Early experiences of family dysfunction and parentification can influence individual development, including career choices. Previous research indicates that these variables are often associated with career decisions, frequently via orientation toward helping professions. This study aimed to examine the relationship between general family dysfunction and parentification with motives for career choice, focusing on both study selection and work engagement. The sample comprised 456 participants (73% women) from Bosnia and Herzegovina, aged 18–45 (M=26.26, SD=6.51). Measures included the SCORE-15 index of family dysfunction, a questionnaire assessing instrumental and emotional parentification, and lists of 11 criteria/motives for study or work engagement choice. Results show that interest in the profession stands out as the most important criterion for choosing a field of study (84.2%) and work engagement (51.8%). Correlational findings suggest that family dysfunction and parentification correlate with stronger helping motives and less concern about later employment. In terms of work engagement, higher levels of these variables correspond with selecting “whatever is available,” alongside reduced emphasis on professional interest and international career prospects. Although effect sizes are modest (r=|.14|–|.21|), the results point to potential mechanisms through which these family factors may inform career decision-making.