These development periods are not rigid within the mentioned time limits. Some young
people may early get a clear idea about what they wish to do, while others are long
undecided or frequently change their options.
b. The process is irreversible
The longer the training for a certain career, the more difficult it will be to change it. This
is why it is important for young people to be informed as early as possible on the options
related to their potential, intellectual and practical capacities.
c. Compromise is essential to every choice
People seeking a profession are often faced with choices: between what they like and
what is useful / necessary / desirable for them to choose, between personal interests and
aptitudes, between their parents’ and their own wishes, between their dreams and what
school and the labour market offer. Opting for each of these situations presupposes
reasonable renunciation and compromise.
Super (1953) also put forth a theory regarding the emergence and evolution of the process
oriented towards choosing a profession. He identifies the following stages:
- The growth stage (4-10 years): one starts being concerned with the future,
has increased control over his/her own life, is convinced that good results
must be obtained at school and work, acquiring attitudes and skills based on
competences. - The exploration stage (14-24 years): improved understanding of the
environment and one’s self (crystallization of identity), limiting the options
range (specifying choice). - The stabilization stage (24-44 years): employment, strengthening one’s
position, promotion. - The maintenance stage (45-65 years): interest in a satisfactory performance,
introducing change and innovation to avoid routine. - Ceasing employment (after 65 years): retirement, restructuring of one’s
lifestyle.
Super’s theory is also based on the following postulates:
- Individual differences in abilities, interests, and personality must be
considered. - In each of us there is a multi-potential that allows qualification for several
professions or occupations. They may be identified using an inventory of
interests and aptitudes. - Professional preferences and competences change over time, which makes
career choice a continual process.