The career pictures of workers in their 50s: considering adult career development using the life-line method

In this study, a survey was carried out concerning the external-objective careers and internal-subjective careers of workers in their 50s when looking back at their own careers from their 20s to their 50s; in addition, consideration was given to the actual situation and challenges of adult career development in Japan. As well as gathering quantitative data by means of a normal questionnaire, the survey involved using the life-line method to gather qualitative data, and analyzing it. The results showed that the career pictures envisaged by workers in their 50s formed an S-shape, peaking in their 30s and reaching a trough in their 40s. Moreover, this trend was particularly strong amongst men. The results of this survey suggested that in Japan, in the future, more serious consideration should be given to medium-term career issues in workers’ 30s and 40s, and that careers guidance for those in this age range should be enhanced.