La Clave Profesional: Validation of a Vocational Guidance Instrument

Abstract

Introduction. The current study demonstrates empirical and cultural validity of La Clave Profesional (Spanish adaptation of Career Key, Jones's test based on Holland's RIASEC model). The process of providing validity evidence also includes a reflection on personal and career development and examines the relationships between RIASEC types, personality traits and Spranger's Types of Men. Method. The participants in this study were 517 secondary students between the ages of 15 and 18, attending public or private high schools. Career, lifestyle and personality factors were assessed by Career Key, Holland's Self-Directed Search, Spranger Lifestyle Test and the Cattell 16 PF. Results. The discrimination index of the items and internal consistency of scales have effectively shown that La Clave Profesional is a very reliable instrument. Additionally, validity procedures demonstrate its relevant validity (criterion and construct). Furthermore, significant relationships were found between interest and personality factors. Discussion and conclusions. Results reveal that La Clave Profesional has sufficient scientific and technical credibility for application to the Spanish population. Once again, relationships between RIASEC scales, personality traits and lifestyle choices suggest the need for more research on enterprising, neurotic and extraverted types.