Post 4

In reviewing the readings and discussions thus far, I've generally identified with constructivist theorists, and my reaction to this week's article follows this trend.  Positivists focus on the idea of career indecision itself, "objectif[ying] and decontextualiz[ing] indecision and thereby exclud[ing] an individual's subjective experience of [it]" (Savickas, p. 3).  I think that this is a mistake. While certain measurements of career indecision may prove useful for beginning a conversation about career development, they paint too limited a picture of the whole person and his or her situation in order to provide constructive feedback for moving forward.  Instead of viewing career indecision as a "list of decision-making difficulties" (Savickas, p. 5), constructivists view it as a "sign of transformation in progress" (Savickas, p. 5).  I think that the latter approach is a much more positive starting point for a conversation-especially for individuals who may already feel apprehension and anxiety over their inability to focus on a particular career field.

Savickas provides us with a five-step life-theme counseling model for helping individuals   with their indecision. I really enjoyed this discussion and case study because I felt as if it is something that I could apply in the role of a school or career counselor. During every discussion of theory we have in class, I find myself wondering how I would actually help an individual who may come to me for career advice, and this five-step model provides a succinct process for structuring feedback. Examining family and identity stories is a fun, interesting way to pinpoint an individual's values and goals without asking this question directly. It also encourages an individual to provide more honest feedback by engaging in storytelling rather than giving answers they believe may be well-received by counselors or other authority figures.  Savickas' description of the case study is especially useful as it clarifies the real-world application of the 5-step model.  After some practice, I think I would feel really comfortable using this approach with clients.

Savickas, Mark. Constructivist Counseling for Career Indecision. Career Development Quarterly, v43   p 363-375. June 1995.