Blog Post 3 Krumboltz

     In reading Chapter 3, Krumboltz's Social Learning Theory, based on Bandura's behavior theory, truly resonated with me (Brown 2012). What I like about the theory is that it focuses no only genetics or environmental conditions, but both of these concepts and more. Krumboltz's theory yields a result that is based on an interaction of the following: genetic endowment and special abilities, environmental conditions and events, learning experiences (instrumental and/or associative learning), and task approach skills (Brown 2012). Rather than focusing on personality traits or opportunities afforded to someone, he understands that all of these factors are imperative in choosing a career. I know in choosing a career for myself, all of these things were included in my decision.
      In school I was slightly above average in most subjects, but I succeeded most in English classes and behavior classes (genetic endowment). I was able to attend college and earn a degree (learning experiences) and I learned from more about the mental health field by working in it for two years (environmental conditions and events). In regards to work ethic and performance, I have high standards for myself (task approach skills). All of these contributed to the fact that I wanted to start and maintain my career in mental health, more specifically, become a counselor. This is just a personal example of how Krumboltz's theory resonates with me.
     But Krumboltz's does not end it there, he continues to identify the three consequences including self-observation, task approach skills, and actions (Brown 2012). I like that Krumboltz's focus is having clients be prepared to expand their knowledge skills and recognize that occupations are always changing. He also understands that the client needs to learn how to cope with stressors in the world and they should understand how to tackle job-related issues. I find this quite important that Krumboltz holds the client responsible, not just for picking a career, but to recognize the issues within a career and how to cope with them efficiently rather than have it be the reason they leave that career. I think using this theory with clients will be beneficial for recognizing the ever-changing employment and career opportunities. 
     I think it is critical to recognize the variety of factors that come into action when choosing a career and Krumboltz's theory explains many aspects of them. I believe there is room for improvement in his theory such as including specifics such as gender, socioeconomic status, and disabilities. Another idea to consider is the concept of a family career genogram and how that affects career choices. I do not think any theory will include every aspect of factors that come into play when choosing a career, but I believe that Krumboltz is on the right track with his Social Learning Theory. 

Brown, D., & Brown, D. (2012). Career information, career counseling, and career

     development (10th ed.). Boston: Pearson.