Cross-lagged associations between study and work engagement dimensions during young adulthood

Abstract

The present four-wave longitudinal study investigated the cross-lagged associations between three study and work engagement dimensions (e.g. energy, absorption, and dedication) over the transition from post-comprehensive studies to higher education or work. Various antecedents (e.g. gender, GPA) and consequences (e.g. satisfaction in life, education and work, well-being, and educational outcomes) of the three engagement dimensions were also examined. The study is part of the longitudinal Finnish Educational Transitions (FinEdu) study, and followed 851 participants from age 17 to 23. The developmental dynamics showed that, in particular, students’ study- and work-related energy predicted feelings of absorption and dedication during their post-comprehensive education and after the transition to higher education or work. Moreover, high dedication in one’s studies or work resulted in high satisfaction in life, studies, and work and increased well-being. No differences related to academic track emerged in the developmental dynamics of study/work engagement.

Keywords:

• study and work engagement
• energy
• absorption
• dedication
• life-satisfaction
• study and work transition
• Finnish young adults

Notes

1. Some participants (N = 191) were both studying and working, however, their work/study status was coded according to what was their full-time status. For example, some participants who were working were also studying for the university entrance exams during their free time.