Chapter 3

     After having a more detailed discussion of Holland's Theory of Vocational Choice last week, and engaging in the small group case study discussion, I still like the ideas presented by his theory. I think there is a lot of validity in the idea that when personalities and work environments are congruent, there will be a higher level of satisfaction with work. The case study was helpful to begin to explore the application of Holland's theory. I hope we do similar activities in the future with other theories.

     Though Krumbolz's Social Learning Theory is very different than Holland's, I see validity in it's premises as well. The two theories remind me of the age old debate of nature versus nurture, with Holland arguing that job satisfaction comes from nature and Krumbolz supporting nurture by focusing on how the ever changing environment and experiences we encounter lead us to make career choices where we can succeed. This theory is attractive in the sense that it empowers the client to choose. We are not born with a predetermined path of happiness, but we can create that path as we gain knowledge and skills to interact and engage in the work around us. This theory allows all people the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed in finding job satisfaction and fulfillment if they so choose.

     Another approach that stood out to me in this week's reading was the Solution-Focused Brief Career Counseling approach. We have been learning about and practicing solutions-focused counseling techniques in Theory and Practice I over the course of the past few weeks. The sequence Brown laid out on page 71 was very helpful in solidifying some of what we've been discussing and putting concrete steps to a process that we've begun to practice. It was beneficial to see in writing the steps of solutions-focused counseling and I am certain that this reading will help me better use this theory in the future.

     Duffy's article addressing spirituality and religion is something that is near to my heart. I personally believe in being called to a career and to specific jobs within that career and would not find much value in having a career counselor who was closed to those ideas. I think it is important to address these beliefs and how they influence the career journey with those who find it meaningful and helpful. Those clients who are not concerned with spiritual or religious issues need not discuss it in the process of career counseling. In summary, career counselors must be sensitive to all areas that are important or of concern in a client's life and help guide the client to a satisfying job by including and assessing all aspects of the individual.


Brown, D. (2012). Career information, career counseling, and career development
(10^{th ed.). New York: Pearson Education, Inc.}

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