Reasons given for being unemployed and the job search progress

This paper examines whether the reasons given for being unemployed and for getting a previous job differentiate between those who later obtain jobs and those who remain unemployed. Initial interviews were carried out with 82 registered unemployed, 51 of whom participated in a follow-up one month later. Those who initially blamed their unemployment on a lack of jobs and who thought that success in the past was due to their own effort, were found to be more likely to obtain jobs. The dilemma of an active job search strategy which produces feelings of low well-being, but also a greater likelihood of obtaining work is discussed. Suggestions are given for ways of handling the conflict.