心理观察｜当“名校光环”撞上就业寒冬：父母正在经历怎样的心理转身

Core Insights - The article discusses the psychological shift among parents of graduates from prestigious universities in China as they confront the harsh realities of the job market, leading to a reevaluation of their beliefs about education and employment [1][2][7]. Group 1: Employment Market Dynamics - The number of college graduates in China is projected to reach 12.22 million by 2025, creating intense competition in the job market [2]. - Many high-achieving graduates from top universities are struggling to secure ideal jobs, with some employment rates for 985 universities dropping below 90% [2]. - For instance, during a recruitment drive by China National Nuclear Corporation, 1,730 positions attracted 1.2 million applications, averaging 691 applicants per position [2]. Group 2: Parental Psychological Transition - Parents are experiencing a cognitive dissonance as their long-held belief that "prestigious schools guarantee good jobs" clashes with the current job market realities [2][3]. - This transition involves a shift from a controlling mindset to one of companionship, where parents recognize that they cannot dictate their children's career paths [3][4]. - Parents are beginning to prioritize their children's mental health over societal perceptions of success, acknowledging that happiness in a job is more important than traditional metrics of success [3][4]. Group 3: Redefining Success - The rise of social media has exposed parents to diverse career paths, prompting them to reconsider what constitutes a "good job" [4]. - Parents are increasingly accepting that success can take many forms, moving away from the notion that their children must work in large corporations to be deemed successful [4][7]. Group 4: Psychological Challenges - Parents face difficulties in letting go of their expectations due to the significant investments made in their children's education, leading to feelings of frustration when outcomes do not meet expectations [5]. - Social comparison pressures from peers and relatives exacerbate parental anxiety regarding their children's job prospects [5]. - The generational gap in understanding the current job market creates conflicts, as parents often rely on outdated experiences to guide their children [5]. Group 5: Support Strategies for Parents - Parents are encouraged to shift their focus from outcome-based assessments to process-oriented support, emphasizing skill development and personal growth during the job search [6]. - It is suggested that parents explore a variety of career options with their children, fostering open discussions about potential paths rather than imposing their own ideals [6]. - Emotional support is crucial, with parents advised to listen and empathize with their children's feelings rather than offering prescriptive solutions [6].