Stated future vocations : an investigation concerning their nature, basis in reality and related theoretical issues : a thesis ... for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University

Abstract

Traditional theories of vocational choice, such as Ginberg et al., Super, Roe, and Holland, assume or imply that vocational choice is a process continuing for a number of years, in which the number of choices made become less with increasing age, and these choices become more realistic. Also the outcome of this process is of vital importance to the life and well-being of the individual. A number of problems are inherent in such assumptions. Because most of the research in this area has failed to adequately define what is meant by vocational choice, or to make distinctions beteween the kinds of jobs an individual would like, and actually end up doing, then the discussions about the number and basis in reality of stated vocational choices are pointless. It has been found that one author's definition of vocational choice has been quite different from another's and yet their discussions would suggest they were the same.