Indian Parental Perceptions of New Age Careers: A Qualitative Study of Urban Families in Bengaluru
Abstract: Background: India's career landscape has expanded rapidly with the growth of technology-driven and non-traditional occupations, yet parents remain central to their children's career decisions. Little is known about how urban Indian parents perceive these new-age careers. This study explored parents' awareness, perceptions, beliefs and concerns regarding selected new-age careers, and developed a preliminary typology of parental orientations. Methods: A qualitative descriptive-typological design was used. Semi-structured interviews, guided by a 15-question protocol, were conducted with urban parents in Bengaluru whose children were in Grades 8 to 12. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis supported by Commacad's Thematique qualitative research software. Results: Five themes were generated: Awareness and perception of career opportunities; Influence of social, cultural and generational viewpoints; Impact of technological advancements; Navigating career uncertainty; and Supportive career environments. Parents were largely open to new-age careers, but their support was conditional on long-term viability and a traditional degree as a safety net. Three orientations emerged: Open Co-Explorer, Cautious Supporter and Concerned Guardian. Conclusions: Parents negotiate between inherited beliefs about career security and a rapidly changing labour market. The typology offers career counsellors a preliminary framework for tailoring parent engagement.
Keywords: New-age careers; parental perceptions; career counselling; reflexive thematic analysis; typology
How to Cite?: Soumya Sandeep, "Indian Parental Perceptions of New Age Careers: A Qualitative Study of Urban Families in Bengaluru", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 105-108, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26930202419, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26930202419