The research context for this study is family influence upon adolescent career phenomena. The construct of family influence was focused through use of intergenerational family systems theory (IFS). The career construct was focused through use of Donald Super’s theoretical and research work in the area of career development. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of IFS variables (fusion/individuation, intimacy, triangulation, intimidation, and personal authority) on college students’ career development process variables (planning, exploration, decision making, world of work information).

Data were obtained from university undergraduates and one of their primary parent figures. The final sample on which the results were computed was composed of 139 parent/university student dyads. Demographic data indicated that the student portion of the sample was predominately female (81%) and Caucasian (89%). The student selected primary parents were predominately female (82%) birth parents (98%) whose households were within the top two levels of social position.

Multiple regression analyses determined that several IFS variables significantly impacted students’ career development process variables. Higher levels of intimacy and lower levels of intimidation between students and their parents were associated with positive career development profiles. Lower levels of triangulation and intimidation between parents and their parents were associated with positive career development profiles. Lower levels of intimacy and personal authority between parents and their parents were associated with positive career development profiles. Higher levels of intimacy and individuation between parents and their partners were associated with positive career development profiles.

The results of the study generally support the notion that family dynamics are related to late adolescent career development processes. Students may benefit from attention to the family system, particularly in terms of both voluntary closeness between students and parents, and issues of intimidation and triangulation between parents and their parents.