SAGE Journal Articles

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Learning Objective: 2-2: Summarize findings about the influence of coherence, purpose in life, and existential hardiness on well-being.

Bland, A. M., & Roberts-Pittman, B. J. (2013). Existential and Chaos Theory: "Calling" for Adaptability and Responsibility in Career Decision Making. Journal of Career Development, 41(5), 382-401. doi:10.1177/0894845313498303

Description: Although the skills promoted by career decision-making models based on information processing, social cognition, and person–environment fit are necessary for general career success, they insufficiently meet the demands of a global society and the current economy. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of two holistic approaches to career decision making: existential and the chaos theory of careers. We propose that these models are more suitable for today’s working world insofar as they promote career adaptability, vocation/calling (beyond job), and moral responsibility in work in the postmodern era. However, because their utility has not yet been extensively researched (despite ample theoretical exposure in the career literature), these models remain relatively unfamiliar to most career counselors. For each model, we provide a theoretical overview, review existing research, and propose areas for further study to identify contexts for which each model may be best suited.

Questions to Consider:

  1. Compare and contrast the existential theory and chaos theory for career decision-making.
     
  2. Which of the following is NOT true for the existential and chaos theories for careers?
    1. They embrace uncertainty
    2. Incorporating emotional intelligence
    3. Emphasizing explicitly spoken patterns and processes (Correct answer)
    4. Encouraging individuals to take an active role in career choice
       
  3. Within the existential theoretical framework, existential themes are used to help those dealing with burnout or job loss.  Which of the below is NOT an existential theme discussed in the article?
    1. Stress (Correct answer)
    2. Meaninglessness
    3. Isolation
    4. Freedom and responsibility