John Holland’s Vocational Choice TheoryChris CammaranoCDF Course Spring, 2012

Background One of the 5 “Trait-and-factor” theories. Consists of 4 basic concepts Identifies 6 personality types

An individual can be described by an combination

4 Basic Concepts: People can be a combination of 2 or

more types Environments can be a combination People seek out similar types of

environments Satisfaction/Productivity tied to a match

6 Personality TypesTheir names and characteristics

Personality Type Descriptions

Likes … Develops … Prefers occupations/jobs … Test to be …

Realistic (R) … to work with tools, machines, animals … mechanical, electrical skills* … that involve building/repairing … down-to-earth and practical

Investigative (I) … engage in physical science activities … math and science ability … in the scientific and medical fields … curious, studious and independent

Artistic (A) … creative activities (free from routine) … language, art, music, drama skills … using creative talents … creative and free thinking

Social (S) … activities that involve

Informing, teaching, helping others … ability to work with people … jobs such as teaching, nursing … helpful and friendly

Enterprising (E) … activities that permit leading … leadership ability, people skills … involving sales or management … ambitious, outgoing, energetic, self-

confident

Conventional (C) … activities that require organizing info … organizational, clerical skills … involving record keeping, data entry … responsible, dependable, detail-

oriented

Individual’s CodeHow is it identified?

3 Methods for Identifying a Code Informal Assessments Interest Inventories Use of last three jobs held