Career adaptability among border guard officers: Group differences and psychological correlates

Abstract

Career adaptability is an important psychological resource that enables individuals to effectively manage career-related challenges and transitions. The present study aimed to examine the level and selected characteristics of career adaptability among officers serving in the Mongolian border protection organization using the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale (CAAS). A total of 520 officers participated in the study, representing different ranks, regions, and demographic groups. The results indicated that officers demonstrated a relatively high level of career adaptability (M = 85.91, SD = 20.99). Among the four dimensions, confidence showed the highest mean score, whereas concern demonstrated comparatively lower levels. Independent samples t-tests revealed no statistically significant gender differences. Similarly, one-way ANOVA results indicated no significant differences across rank and regional categories. However, exploratory post hoc comparisons may suggest potential differences in concern and confidence across certain groups, although these findings should be interpreted with caution. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of career adaptability as a key psychological resource in military contexts and provide practical implications for personnel development and organizational support strategies.