Unemployed ( n = 118) and employed ( n = 120) people were contrasted on variables of well-being, confidence, and employment commitment. The unemployed scored lower on the General Health Questionnaire (Goldberg, 1972) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (Sherer et al.. 1982). No differences were identified on levels of employment commitment. For the unemployed sample, predictors of job-seeking behavior and well-being were then examined. Intention to seek work predicted job-seeking behavior, while self-efficacy, employment commitment, and intentions to seek work predicted well-being. Results are discussed in light of current theories of job seeking behavior, and recommendations are made for practice.
Unemployment remains a major social problem. I t has been a reoccurring problem throughout this century and a feature of industrialized countries since the early to mid-1970s. The current unemployment rate in Australia hovers between 8% and 9%. although some estimate that there are large numbers of "hidden unemployed" that place this figure much higher (Sheehan, 1980). The official unemployment rate of 8% to 9% equates to some 800.000 people out of work, with approximately one third of these being longterm 12 months) unemployed (Australian Bureau of Statistics
[ABS], 1997a. 1997b).
It is now well documented that for many the experience of unemployment brings with it problems related to personal effectiveness and general well-being minefield, 1995). For example, when the unemployed are compared with those in employment, they report greater psychological distress (Henwood & Miles, 1987; Ullah, Banks,