From gamers to players: Chinese Generation Z's perspectives on minors dropping out of school to become professional esports players.

This article examines Generation Z’s attitudes in China toward minors dropping out of school to pursue careers as professional esports players, using Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) to analyze perspectives on self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and personal goals. While Generation Z finds esports appealing and recognizes its growing economic and cultural significance, they also acknowledge the intense competition, uncertain career prospects, health risks, and societal and familial pressures that make esports a challenging and often risky career choice. The study reveals a tension between traditional Chinese values emphasizing academic achievement and career stability and Generation Z’s increasing openness to interest-driven, individualized career paths, reflecting a broader cultural negotiation amid modernization. Additionally, the research highlights gender disparities in esports knowledge and participation, suggesting the need for greater inclusion of women to address existing power imbalances within the industry.