Drawing on social cognitive career theory (SCCT) and trait activation theory, this study investigated how and when career exploration affects career outcomes in early adulthood with an integrated conceptual framework. Data came from a two-wave survey of young Chinese adults (N = 239). This study examined a serial mediation model in which career exploration related to career satisfaction and person-job fit via career success criteria clarity (CSCC) and career decision making self-efficacy (CDSE) sequentially. Results showed, as expected, that more career exploration was related to higher career satisfaction and better person-job fit via higher career success criteria clarity and CDSE. In addition, results indicated that the indirect effect of career exploration on career outcomes becomes stronger when family socioeconomic status is lower. The current research provided insights into the underlying mechanisms between career exploration and career outcomes and the findings offered practical implications for both career educators and consultants.
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