Underemployment refers to which group of individuals?

Underemployment specifically identifies individuals who are currently working fewer hours than they would prefer, coupled with a desire for additional work. This situation reflects a mismatch between their skills or availability and the number of hours they are currently engaged in their job. It can occur when part-time workers seek full-time positions or when their work does not fully utilize their skills and potential, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction despite being employed.

The other groups do not fit the definition of underemployment. For instance, those employed full-time with high job satisfaction are not underemployed, as they are working the hours they desire and feel fulfilled in their roles. The unemployed seeking work and those between jobs looking for better opportunities do not fall under the umbrella of underemployment as they are not currently engaged in employment at all, in any capacity.