Future Thinking and Sustainable Career Perceptions in Emerging Adults: The Mediating Role of Environmental Concern

Emerging adulthood, characterized by identity exploration and optimism for the future, provides a unique context for examining the interactions between psychological and environmental factors that shape career perceptions. Positive future thinking, defined as the ability to imagine and plan long-term goals, is associated with greater resilience and adaptability. Simultaneously, environmental concern emerges as a critical driver of values and perceptions, reflecting commitment to social and environmental well-being. Sustainable careers that integrate personal growth, well-being, and contributions to societal goals are increasingly relevant at this stage of life. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of environmental concern in the relationship between positive future thinking and sustainable career perceptions in a sample of 266 Italian emerging adults (ages 18–29, M = 22.25, SD = 2.21). Structural equation modeling indicated that the hypothesized mediation model fit the data well. The results revealed significant direct effects of positive future thinking on both environmental concern and sustainable career perceptions, as well as a significant indirect effect through environmental concern. These findings highlight the psychological pathways linking positive future thinking, environmental concern, and sustainable career perceptions and provide insights for promoting adaptive and future-oriented behaviors in emerging adulthood. By doing so, this study contributes to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 13 (Climate Action).