Dramatic fluctuations in employment trends pose a problem for young adolescents embarking on the career decision-making process. Paired with inadequate career-guidance resources, this creates a serious societal problem. This study empirically examined relationships among eighth-grade students' perceptions of relatedness, autonomy, and competence (Deci & Ryan, 1985) relative to students' career decision-making readiness (Peterson et al., 1991). Eighth-grade students (n = 108) in the southeastern United States completed the Basic Psychological Needs Scale and the Career Thoughts Inventory. Correlational analyses reveal statistically significant relationships between students' perceptions of autonomy and student perceptions of decision-making confusion (r = -0.42, p = 0.00), external conflict (r = -0.43, p = 0.00), and commitment anxiety (r = -0.21, p = 0.03). Student perceptions of competence show significant relationships with student perceptions of decision-making confusion and external conflict. Perceptions of competence are associated with commitment anxiety (r = -0.18, p = 0.07), decision-making confusion (r = -0.36, p = 0.00), and external conflict (r = -0.38, p = 0.00). Satisfaction of relatedness needs are associated with external conflict (r = -0.36, p = 0.00), decision-making confusion (r = -0.34, p = 0.00), and commitment anxiety (r = -0.07, p = 0.49). The results provide valuable insights for parents, educators, and education policy directors. Development of a career-readiness curriculum designed to meet the basic psychological needs of young adolescents may prove effective in overcoming career decision-making confusion, alleviating commitment anxiety, and reducing external conflicts. Development and pilot testing of such a curriculum remain for future researchers. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]