Theories and Genograms

In order to have a road map in career development, Brown (2012) explains theories that can assist. A theory I found interesting is Holland’s Theory of Vocation Choice that focuses on how personality is the primary factor in vocational choice. I think personality is definitely an important aspect to consider in career development because we need to allow personality characteristics to shine through in our jobs. I believe that is why people who think more logically end up in science related fields while those who are more creative end up in artistic or human relations fields. Brown (2012) states Holland’s theory shows that people often daydream about occupations and these are often precursors to occupation choices. I agree with this because we so often imagine what a career would potentially look like for us. I agree with Holland’s theory in the respect that success stems from choice an occupation that is congruent with personality. If an extremely creative individual does not have some sort of creative outlet in their career, it could possibly make them unhappy.

            Brown (2012) mentions that older theories of career development focused on white men and current theories are still limited in their applicability to minorities because they are based on Eurocentric beliefs. The issue with this is that there are minorities of different ethnic backgrounds across the country and if they are looking for assistance in their career development, they might have a harder time because the theories and processes are based on these Eurocentric beliefs. It will be interesting to see how theories progress and attempt to be more culturally inclusive. In the meantime, how do career development counselors and practitioners assist these individuals?

            In the attempt to answer my own question, it is possible that genograms can assist in this process. Although career development theories are more limited, genograms can assist individuals that know their family’s career history as equally as anyone else. A multicultural family might have a different set of values and this could potentially be evident through career choices. This can assist the individual an opting a career that is more congruent with their values instead of focusing on Eurocentric beliefs. Because ‘minority’ races, more specifically African Americans, are more likely living in poverty they might have family members who chose alternative careers that they not necessarily need a degree for. The genogram can prove helpful in this situation as well, allowing an individual living in poverty access to alternative sorts of careers that do not focus on higher education. Many high schools focus only on higher education and this allows the individual to look elsewhere for career opportunities.

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

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