DefinePK

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between perceived job market competition and psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress, among unemployed educated cohort in Pakistan. A cross-sectional correlational design with purposive sampling is employed. The sample comprises 124 participants aged 18 to 39 years (M = 27.39, SD = 4.30), all of whom hold at least a bachelor's degree and have been unemployed for a minimum of one year. Data are collected using the external factors subscale of the Perceived Employability Scale (Rothwell & Arnold, 2007) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995). Lower scores on the external factors subscale indicate higher job market competition. The results indicate a significant relationship between job market competition and psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Regression analysis also demonstrates a significant effect of job market competition on depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings suggest that perceptions of job market competition play a critical role in shaping the mental health of unemployed educated cohort in Pakistan. The study underscores the urgent need for psychological support systems and employment-focused policies to mitigate the adverse mental health effects of prolonged unemployment and high job market pressure.