Blog 7: Chp 8

Chapter 8 in the Brown text is probably one of the most important chapters we will read. Information on occupations and education are the catalyst into career development (Brown, 2012).  I like the developmental approach Brown introduced in the first section to show how occupational information is essential at all stages of life.  Furthermore, it emphasizes the fact that career development is a lifelong process (Brown, 2012). 

Additionally, Brown (2012) repeats the tasks of breaking stereotypes, addressing oppression and discrimination throughout the lifespan.  I particularly like this aspect because stereotypes and discrimination can become so engrained into a person they do not realize they exist.  Not only does our culture need to spread awareness, but act on it to gain social justice.  Lastly, retirees are typically “swept under the rug”.  Not much thought is associated with occupational information and someone who is retired.  However, it has become a need in our culture for several reasons.  First, the baby boomers—more people are retired or retiring.  Second, retirees do not always find happiness in not doing anything or contributing to society in a meaningful way.  The population of retired folks seems like an untapped resource.  Society and our culture would benefit from encouraging individuals who are retired and unhappy to get back into the workforce with an appropriate job (Brown, 2012).  Moreover, volunteering can be rewarding for both the individual and others.  Personally, I have seen a vast array of functioning amongst retirees.  I work in healthcare so I come across people who are volunteering or are patients who have/do volunteer.   What’s more, people the same age as them cannot even feed themselves.  While sometimes physical ailments play a role, others do not want to do things for themselves, plain and simple.  I wonder if they have lost their sense of importance in the world, they may feel they have nothing left to contribute.  Is it possible that somewhere deep in their unconscious they feel the only way they can contribute to society is by being helpless in order to employ others?  Although this is a stretch, I do feel that a lot of retirees long to contribute to society and as that opportunity slowly slips away so does their spirit, psychological and physical health.  (Also, I have seen this pattern amongst those not of retiring age). Occupational information for this group can be the stepping stones to get back into the workplace.  Our culture should encourage and accept retirees in the work environment as either employees or volunteers.

The last point I want to touch on is job shadowing.  I think that this is such an easy tool to use at all stages of life.  Perhaps if I did some job shadowing I could have saved myself from treacherous job experiences.  Likewise, employers should encourage interviewees in which they are interested in hiring to job shadow.  This can save the employer resources and money by allowing the interviewee the opportunity to decide if the job is a good or bad fit.  In addition, co-workers can gauge the potential employee and give feedback to the hiring manager a well-rounded picture of that individual as an employee.

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