Individuals facing complex work transitions are systematically exposed to a double demanding task, that is dealing effectively with everyday activities and at the same time keeping their view open to future goals. They are then required effective executive skills and a future time perspective.
Main Executive Skills (ES), that is planning, monitoring and control processes, are in fact linked to important outcomes, including work inclusion (Meulenbroek, & Turkstra, 2016) and social participation (Douglas, et al. 2016). Future time perspective is associated with the ability to set career goals, to create conditions for success in personal and work life (Lang, 2000; Taber, 2015; Zacher & Frese, 2009). Relationships have been shown between executive skills and future orientation (Schacter, Addis, & Buckner, 2008; Sgaramella, et al., 2008).
The aim of the study was to analyse the effectiveness of a 5 sessions group program, fostering executive strategies and agency toward future, in developing positive future selves of individuals experiencing complex work transitions.
Sixteen Italian adults, male (12) and female (4) were involved (their age ranged from 25 to 47 years old). All experienced unemployment and sporadic work activities. A control group attended a short course on work search.
Baseline and effectiveness of the intervention measured: perceived executive skills (Carrieri, & Sgaramella, 2008); career adaptability, resilience and time perspective, hope and optimism (Santilli, et al. 2017; Ginevra, et al. 2017); occupational time perspective (Zacher, 2013). Qualitative interviews were used to analyse future goals (Sgaramella, 2018) and action plans (McMahon, et al., 2005).
After the intervention changes were observed in personal attitudes and strengths. Future action plans were by far more detailed and evidenced positive future selves.
The study underscores the potential contribution of the domains addressed in a career counseling and guidance aimed to empower individuals and preventing social marginalization and exclusion.
