ABSTRACT
Vocational psychology emerged with industrialization in the late 19th century to match humans with machines and manufacturing processes. In 1909, Frank Parsons applied a ‘scientific method’ to vocational counselling, which gave rise to the ‘trait and factor’ theory still common today. This chapter outlines a classic 5-stage model of career counselling and development, including benefits and limitations of this career approach. Typically, psychological instruments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or Holland’s Theory of Occupational Codes are used to match individuals with occupations. Popular books on career guidance, such as Bolles’ What Color is Your Parachute?, also guide people through this process. The traditional approach emphasises individuals’ known skills, values, interests and preferences. It focuses on what one is conscious of – in Jungian psychology, the ego’s view of itself – but does not allow for what one is not yet conscious of – both within oneself and regarding changing environments and emerging occupations. Recent directions in career development – such as constructivism; the role of chance, chaos and complexity; connections between spirituality and work; and applying Joseph Campbell’s model of the Hero’s Journey – challenge positivist match-making approaches. Depth psychology offers valuable insights for development and refinement of these metaphor-based methods.
