This study aimed to compare and analyze the psychological characteristics of students in an undeclared major program with those of students in general departments. Furthermore, it explored the applicability of narrative coaching as a strategy to suppo...
This study aimed to compare and analyze the psychological characteristics of students in an undeclared major program with those of students in general departments. Furthermore, it explored the applicability of narrative coaching as a strategy to support students’ adaptation to university life, major choice motivation, and persistence in studying. A survey was conducted among 137 freshmen. The findings revealed that students in undeclared majors had significantly lower levels of school membership, major choice motivation (intrinsic factor), and intent to persist than students in general majors. Additionally, school membership and major choice motivation (intrinsic factors) were proven to be key variables with a significant positive effect on the intent to persist. In additon to these quantitative results, an analysis of students' interviews based on narrative coaching confirmed that this type of coaching possesses practical utility in fostering self-authored narratives. This study is significant because it proposes the necessity and specific directions for applying narrative coaching as an emotional support system for students with undeclared majors.