Social Pressure and Youth Employment Intentions: Evidence from CLDS and Implications for Sustainable Development in China

Abstract

Decent work and economic growth are fundamental components of sustainable development, as emphasized in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8). This study empirically examines the impact of social pressure on youth employment intentions within the SDG 8 framework, aiming to provide insights for policymakers and contribute to the literature on sustainable development. Utilizing data from 1779 respondents in the 2018 China Labor-force Dynamics Survey (CLDS2018) and applying a Pooled OLS model, the findings reveal that increased job security pressure and lower social recognition significantly reduce employment intentions among youth. Contrary to expectations, social exclusion shows no statistically significant effect. As individuals age, employment intentions increase due to rising family economic responsibilities. Male workers demonstrate higher sensitivity to social pressure, especially regarding social status, leading to a sharper decline in employment intentions. Additionally, only children experience greater effects of social pressure compared to those with siblings. These results highlight the complex interplay between social factors and employment decisions among youth. The study suggests that policies should aim to mitigate social pressure, particularly by enhancing job security and social recognition, to boost youth economic participation and support sustainable development goals. While the cross-sectional nature of the data limits causal inferences, this research provides a foundation for future longitudinal studies and cross-cultural comparisons in the context of sustainable development and youth employment.