This study explores the role of career adaptability in influencing the internal glass ceiling among young working women in Kerala, with particular attention to differences based on marital status. The internal glass ceiling refers to the self-imposed psychological and behavioural barriers that restrict women’s career advancement. Primary data were collected from 223 respondents using a structured questionnaire and statistical tools such as independent samples t-test and Pearson correlation analysis were employed. The findings indicated that unmarried women exhibit relatively higher levels of internal glass ceiling compared to married women, highlighting the influence of career stage and perceived uncertainty in shaping internal constraints. Further, the study reveals a strong negative and statistically significant relationship between career adaptability and internal glass ceiling suggesting that women with higher adaptability experience lower internal barriers. The results underscore the importance of enhancing career adaptability through targeted organizational interventions such as training, mentoring and skill development initiatives.