Insights of Brown's Theory

The theory I chose this week is Brown’s Value-Based theory. This theory is a trait-and-factor theory that focuses on work values the individual holds. Trait-and-factor theories emphasize the importance of individuals developing their own traits that include their values, interests, and qualities and select their compatible environment (Brown, 2012). Other trait-and-factor theories include Holland’s Theory of Vocational Choice, and Theory of Work Adjustment. Career counselors narrow in on their client’s work values and translate them into the correct work environment.

The analysis done by VanVoorhis and Protivnak (2012) focused on the importance and usefulness of value-based theories. The article investigated a case study that involved a female in her early twenties. She opted to see a career counselor to discuss her unmet needs; she felt that there was something missing in her work life. The counselor explored the client’s work values and looked for ways to compliment those values in the workplace. From these values she was able to set a goal and work towards it in a timely fashion. When she reached her goal, there were higher levels of job satisfaction and more positive outcomes. By being able to discover her own work values, the client gained insight on the importance of these values in the workplace that ultimately led to higher job satisfaction. A career counselor can also demonstrate how to incorporate a cost-benefit analysis of the work values. This allows clients to see how their values translate into potential work environments. All of the value-based interventions allow the clients to illuminate their values and interests to better suit their work atmosphere.

From my personal experience with my own career development, I can see the importance of knowing and understanding your work values. During my time at my previous job, I did not have my work values met and I felt unsatisfied. There was an imbalance between my values that I wanted to have met and the values that were actually fulfilled. My value to help those in need did not match my coworkers’ values. Many of my coworkers valued the idea of more funding for the agency and would do just about anything to obtain it. I managed to cope for a year with the agency before I noticed that I was unhappy and needed a job that fit my values. My current job exceeds my work values. All of my coworkers go above and beyond to help our clients. I feel extremely satisfied with where I am at currently and hope to continue helping others.

References

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

VanVoorhis, R., & Protivnak, J. (2012). Using values-based approaches in employment counseling and assessment: Professional and related occupations. Journal of Employment Counseling, 49(4), 160-171.