Abstract
Research on work-related help seeking has been attracting attention in recent years. This study was conducted
to clarify the process of acquiring autonomous help-seeking behavior in the workplace among young workers.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 young workers. Each participant’s verbatim records were
analyzed via modified grounded theory approach (M-GTA). As a result, 43 concepts, 15 categories, and 6 category
groups were extracted based on the data. The results indicated that the process of acquiring autonomous helpseeking
behavior involves the following three stages: total dependence on the helper, spontaneous help-seeking, and
flexible and appropriate help-seeking. Factors influencing dependent help-seeking were considered to be hurdles
to consultation and impatience for independence. Factors that increase autonomy in help-seeking were shown to
be the ability to express oneself in work relationship and recognition of the significance of the consultation. It was
confirmed that organizational socialization influences the help-seeking progress. The importance of developing a
workplace where support each other was discussed.
