Contribution from Jenny Bimrose, Institute for Employment Research, University of Warwick.

It is based on theories that practitioners identified as influential on their interviewing as part of research undertakin in the early 1990's by Kidd et al.

Matching theories (Trait/factor)

Based on differential psychology, these approaches assume that guidance is essentially about a process of rational decision making in which clients are assessed by the 'expert pracitioner' and then matched to the 'best fit' opportunity. It follows that the provision of information about the client and the world of work will result in behaviour change (e.g. improved decision making skills).

Developmental theory

The process of helping a person to develop and accept an integrated and adequate picture of themselves and of their role in the world of work. A central concept is that people develop through stages over their lifetime.

Theory of occupational allocation (Opportunity structure)

Apart from a privileged minority of the population individuals are (more or less) constrained in their choice of occupations by social variables that are outside their control e.g. gender, ethnicity and social class.

Learning theory of careers choice & counselling

People acquire their preferences through a variety of learning experiences, beliefs about themselves and the nature of their world emerge through direct and indirect education experiences. They take action on the basis of their beliefs using learned skills.

Psychodynamic theories

These theories guided by attempts to understand, make meaning of, and utilise individual motives, purposes and drives to support career development.

Community interaction theory

According to this theory, the most significant factors in occupational choice are the interpersonal transactions conducted in local settings.

Working Models of Career Guidance: the interview

Kidd, M. J., Killeen, J., Jarvis, J. and Offer, M., (1993) Working Models of Career Guidance: the interview, London: NICEC/Birkbeck College

The career theories found to be influential on guidance practice are summarised and critiqued in the folders contained within this section. It comprises sections on matching; developmental; occupational allocation; social learning; psychodynamic and community interaction approaches.