Major Career Theories: International and Developmental Perspectives

Abstract

This chapter examines international and developmental issues in career and vocational guidance through three major theoretical perspectives: person-environment fit theories, self-concept theories, and theories of career decision-making and social learning. After briefly presenting the historical context and origin theories of each of these three broad schools of thought, the chapter identifies key scientific support for the application of the theories across the lifespan based on contemporary evidence and current state of theory. Research, interventions and theoretical contributions from international scholars are included, and the global impact of the theories are discussed. The chapter also identifies areas that require additional attention by career and vocational researchers, and emphasises the value of adopting a “cradle through career” approach to career theory and research.