How+to+Judge+a+Theory

__What are Theories?__
 * Theories provide the "conceptual glue" to describe where, when, and for what purpose career counseling, career education, etc. should be implemented
 * A theory is a picture, image, or __REPRESENTATION of reality__

__Where did the theories of career development originate?__
 * From 4 separate disciplines:
 * **Differential Psychology**- its extension to work and occupations
 * **Personality-** the idea that individuals possess certain unique amounts of measurable traits
 * **Sociology-** the idea that social movement, class, and organization must be considered
 * **Development Psychology-** the idea that life is dynamic and consideration of a career must take into account the themes and seasons of a life

__Major Types of Career Development Theories__
 * Trait and Factor Theories (closely related to Person-Environment Theories)
 * Developmental Theories
 * Theories Rooted in Learning Theory
 * Constructivist or Phenomenological Theories

__Judging a Theory__
 * Face validity? (Does it seem valid, or "ring true" at first glance?)
 * Supported by convincing evidence (Does it have empirical evidence to support it?)
 * Explain past and future outcomes?
 * Handle new data and discoveries? (Is the theory flexible enough to adapt with new information?)
 * Stimulate new research?
 * Clearly understandable? (Does it "simplify the world"?)
 * Self-satisfying? (Is the theory appealing?)

Reference: Class Notes, September 7, 2011; Class notes, September 4, 2013