Thinking beyond 'sticks' in Australian employment services: A self-determination theory perspective

Abstract

Taking a self-determination theory perspective, this study examined the experience of unemployed people in Australia’s mandatory employment services system. Using longitudinal quantitative data, a mediation analysis found that when the system thwarted jobseekers’ psychological need for relatedness and competence, poorer mental health outcomes were reported whereas support for relatedness predicted better mental health outcomes. Thwarting competence need was also predictive of lower job search intentions. A supplementary qualitative analysis provided additional support for these findings.