Emotional intelligence and career decision-making self-efficacy: mediating roles of goal commitment and professional commitment

This study is the first to examine the mechanism of the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) and the moderating role of gender in relevant mechanisms. Analyses of 185 Chinese university students showed that EI could influence CDMSE through goal commitment (GC) and professional commitment, and male students exhibited a stronger relationship between EI and GC compared with female students. This study introduces a new perspective for career development research by establishing a mediation-based emotion–career framework and provides deeper insights for career counselors to assist clients in career decision processes.