Career theory and models

In this section you will find introductions to some of the core theories on career development.

There are numerous theories, and no single one is sufficient to describe the broad field of career development. It is important to note, also, that these core theories have sometimes been criticised for their narrow scope. For example, there has been little research relating to ethnic minorities and groups of people with disabilities.

Career theories typically fall into one of three categories which, while not mutually exclusive, can be a useful form of classification:

Theory of process

Theories of process relate to interaction and change over time. This can be characterised by theories in which there are a series of stages through which people pass.

Theory of content

Theories of content relate to the characteristics of the individual and the context they live in. The influences on career development are thought to be either intrinsic to the individual or originate from the context in which the individual lives.

Theory of content and process

Theories of content and process have been formed in response to a need for theory to take into account both of these key areas. These theories encompass both the characteristics of individuals and their context, and the development and interaction between them.