Exploring the Influence of Optimism and Self-efficacy on New and Professional Immigrants' Retraining Experiences in Canada

• Main Author: Kennedy, Tara
• Other Authors: Chen, Charles
• Language: en_ca
• Published: 2012
• Subjects: Immigrants; Retraining; Optimism; Self-Efficacy; 0621; 0347
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1807/32445

The purpose of this study was to examine the retraining and career development experiences of new and professional immigrants in Canada. The study intended to provide an in- depth perspective into the influence of immigrants’ optimism and self-efficacy on their retraining and career development experiences. Using a qualitative methodology, in-depth interviews were conducted and a grounded theory approach was employed to analyze the data. Central themes within participant narratives emerged and key results were introduced. Participants’ experiences included a myriad of barriers and challenges, yet many viewed this experience as a positive opportunity for growth and development. The results explored differences between optimists’ and pessimists’ retraining and career development experiences, as well as the role of self-efficacy within immigrants’ career development. Results have implications for career and vocational psychology literature, practice, and career counselling, and include suggestions for future researchers.