Hope and Future Orientation: A Phenomenological Study of Vocational High School Students’ Psychological Dynamics in Yogyakarta

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33394/jk.v12i2.20041

Keywords:

Hope, Future Orientation, Psychological Dynamics, Vocational School Students, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to describe the psychological dynamics of vocational high school (SMK) students in constructing hope and future orientation. A qualitative approach with a phenomenological design was employed to explore the lived experiences of students conducted in a vocational high school setting in Yogyakarta City, Indonesia.  Data were collected through in-depth interviews with eleventh-grade students and limited participatory observation, and were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings indicate that students’ hope is not understood as an abstract projection of the future, but rather as a concrete life goal oriented toward economic independence and readiness to assume adult roles. Students’ future orientation develops dynamically through processes of internal conflict, adaptation, self-acceptance, and the formation of alternative planning strategies.  The results also reveal anxiety related to work readiness due to limited practical training and inadequate learning facilities. Nevertheless, students demonstrate psychological resilience by maintaining hope and engaging in adaptive efforts to face the future. This study recommends that policymakers evaluate the zoning system and improve practice facilities, and that educational counselors provide early career orientation services.

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Published

2026-05-27

How to Cite

Alhail, H., Fathiyah, K. N., Azis, A. C. K., Sasea, S. C., Musthafa, A., Sijabat, N. R. B., … Ridwan, M. (2026). Hope and Future Orientation: A Phenomenological Study of Vocational High School Students’ Psychological Dynamics in Yogyakarta. Jurnal Kependidikan : Jurnal Hasil Penelitian Dan Kajian Kepustakaan Di Bidang Pendidikan, Pengajaran, Dan Pembelajaran, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.33394/jk.v12i2.20041

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2026): June (IN PRESS)

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