Exploring job mismatch among Malaysian graduates: a job demands-resources (JD-R) model perspective with person-job (P-J) fit and career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) as psychological extensions

Li, Qing (2026) Exploring job mismatch among Malaysian graduates: a job demands-resources (JD-R) model perspective with person-job (P-J) fit and career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) as psychological extensions. Master dissertation/thesis, UTAR.

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Abstract

This study explores the causes of employment mismatch among Malaysian college students. Although higher education is generally considered to increase employment opportunities, many college students still face difficulties in finding jobs that match their qualifications and expectations. This problem is of great significance to personal career development and the effective utilisation of human capital. In order to study this problem, this study uses the job needs-resource (JD-R) model and the Person-Job Fit theory, and considers the role of career decision-making self (CDMSE). This study adopts the cross-sectional quantitative survey method, and the survey subjects are 350 Malaysian college graduates who have graduated and entered the workplace in the past 8 years. Data analysis adopts the partial least squares structure equation model (PLS-SEM). The results show that job resources, such as autonomy and leadership support, have a positive impact on the recognised P-J Fit. In contrast, the cognitive workload will i increase the perception of mismatch with work. Interestingly, the results of the study also show that P-J Fit is positively related to job mismatch, which shows that even if individuals feel that they are qualified for the job, they may still feel that their work does not match their broader career goals or background education. In general, this study enriches the existing literature on JD-R models and labour employment by providing relevant evidence from Malaysia. The research results also provide practical suggestions for organisations and policymakers to improve job design and support college students to achieve better employment results.

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