Chapter 3 / Duffy

          I felt a connection to the readings about postmodern theories (Brown 2012, p. 69). In particular, I was drawn to the comparison to chaos theory and the butterfly effect since these are theories that I have spent a lot of time thinking about. I really do view the world as completely interconnected and that a minor occurrence in one place could have enormous ramifications elsewhere. Our world is extremely complex, so it is refreshing to be presented with a theory that really accounts for the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the world. In my genogram summary I even mention how a five minute conversation or a chance encounter can have a monumental impact on a person’s life.

          As a counselor using a postmodern approach, it is important to allow a client to narrate on his or her life story and then for the counselor and client to work together in a joint effort to make meaning of the story (Brown 2012, p. 70). Part of coming to understand how the client views his or her world could entail discussions about religion or spirituality. As Duffy (2006) explains, there is evidence to suggest that religious or spiritual individuals experience more job satisfaction. Obviously it would not be prudent for a counselor to suggest somebody turn to religion, but if a client indicates they have spiritual or religious tendencies, then perhaps these avenues could be explored during a session. Duffy (2006) also mentions some directions for future research that were very interesting including looking at how people who express high levels of spirituality or religiousness cope with challenges in the workplace or job market. I consider myself to be a religious man, and I do feel that my faith serves as a partial shield to my self-esteem and self-concept during tough times. The summer after graduating college was spent searching for a job with little success. It was a really difficult time for me, but I recall having faith that eventually an opportunity would present itself. Sure enough it did, and that experience directly led me to Millersville. I cannot say for sure if it was part of a predetermined plan though. On one hand the presence of a master plan is comforting, but on the other hand it seems to lessen the meaning associated with accomplishments. Connecting back to the chaos theory, if I had accepted a job elsewhere, or if I had been assigned a different client during my first TSS assignment, I could have branched off onto a completely different career path. As counselors we must not attempt to control the chaos, but rather use it to our advantage in order to assist our clients on their journey through the universe.

References

Brown, D. (2012). Career information, career counseling, and career development (10th ed., pp. 59-79). New York: Pearson Education, Inc.

Duffy, R. (2006). Spirituality, religion, and career development: Current status and future directions. The Career Development Quarterly, 55, 52-63.