Journal of Education, Society and Behavioural Science

This systematic review aims to address several questions examining the consequences of career mismatch at the individual level, particularly on psychological distress and other psychological effects among professionals. This study utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA), where relevant studies were synthesized to explore how career mismatch influences professionals. The following eligibility criteria were employed: (1) studies about professionals experiencing mismatch, (2) studies discussing the vertical and horizontal mismatch, and (3) 2015 to 2025 studies written in English. Studies employing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs were also considered. Out of the 30 studies assessed for review, only 10 were eligible to be included. Studies reveal that mismatch predicts psychological distress through its impact on job satisfaction. Other people’s perceptions of mismatched professionals have also been found to heighten distress. Furthermore, there is an elevated risk of psychological distress that may lead to psychiatric hospitalization. These findings signify the link between career mismatch and psychological distress. This review also indicates the presence of other psychological effects brought by career mismatch, such as resilience and job attitudes. Lastly, results show that a professional’s desire to work in a well-matched career is influenced by the extent to which they are satisfied with their current mismatched careers. Indeed, career mismatch has been observed in a lot of contexts and is widely experienced by a lot of professionals across the globe. However, career mismatch in the context of this review remains understudied. Overall, the review reinforces the need for further research on the psychological aspects of career mismatch and highlights recommendations for organizational support, mental health care providers, and future researchers.