Comparing Flourishing training with Transactional Analysis training Regarding their Effectiveness on Students’ Career Path Optimism and Readiness for Transition from University to the Labor Market

Abstract

Abstract Background and purpose: common point of view states that students should be prepared to face the world of work in a continuous plan. The purpose of this research was to compare Flourishing training with Transactional Analysis (TA) training regarding their effectiveness on career path optimism and students' readiness for transition from university to the labor market. Method: The research is semi-experimental with a pretest, post-test design among a control group. The statistical population consisted of final-year undergraduates at Azad University of Gorgan, Iran, in the academic year 2022-2023. 45 people were selected from among the final-year undergraduates using the available sampling method and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and a control group. Experimental Group 1 was subjected to flourishing training, experimental Group 2 was subjected to transactional analysis training, and the control group did not receive any intervention. The research tool was Rottinghaus et al.'s career path optimism questionnaire (2005) and Sadeghi et al.'s (2017) readiness to transition from university to the labor market questionnaire. The research data was analyzed through multivariate analysis of covariance using statistical software SPSS version 26. Findings: The results showed that both flourishing training and transactional analysis are effective in increasing career path optimism and preparation for the transition from university to the labor market (p<0.05). There was a significant difference in terms of effectiveness; In such a way, flourishing training was more effective in increasing the optimism of the career path and preparation for the transition from the university to the labor market. Conclusion: The results indicate that flourishing training by strengthening the sense of competence, self-management, self-awareness, positive perception of qualifications, and creating optimism, constantly improves the path to success in transition from university to work.