Three psychological traits and protean career orientation: a sequential mediation study based on the derivative view of protean career concept

This study explored the psychological traits relevant to protean career attitude (PCA), which is being reevaluated in today’s volatile environment. It examined the associations among differentiation of self (DoS), meaning in life (MiL), resilience (R), and PCA, with a focus on their interactions. South Koreans aged 30–49 years with at least 1 year of work experience participated. The results showed that MiL and R sequentially mediate the relationship between DoS and PCA. Career counselors and HR professionals can gain insights, as discovering one’s MiL, rooted in DoS, is essential for adaptability and PCA in cultural contexts similar to South Korea.