The “Futuring” Dilemma in Narrative Identity: A Longitudinal Study of Future Vocational Plans Among Italian Freshmen

The present study sought to explore the development of Psychology students’ narrative vocational identity focusing on the future plans and expectations that led them to the choice of Psychology and identifying whether there are any developmental changes resulting from early experiences of university life. Written narratives produced by students were studied in two different moments: during the first week of university attendance and immediately after first session of exams. The participants consisted of 50 Italian psychology students, balanced by gender aged 18 to 21 years (Mage = 19.65 years, SD = 2.28). Narrative data of both Time1 and Time2 were analysed and compared through a content analysis focusing on rationale for the selection of studies; temporal models; sophistication; and vocational identity process. The results suggest that the future vocational plans have a crucial role in the vocational identity development. In this sense, the present study gives important information in order to suggest vocational intervention to enhance the future orientation of university students.