Career Developmental Theory of Donald Super

This set of flashcards covers the five stages of Donald Super's Career Developmental Theory, including age ranges and key characteristics of each stage.

Career Developmental Theory (Donald Super)

Theories that partition working life into stages and try to specify the typical vocational behaviors at each stage.

Growth Stage

The first stage of career development occurring from birth to $14$ years, where individuals develop interests, abilities, and attitudes toward work while their self-concept is shaped by family, school, and early experiences.

Exploration Stage

The second stage occurring between the ages of $15$ and $24$ years, focusing on exploring career options, trying new experiences, developing skills, and making initial career decisions like choosing a course or strand.

Establishment Stage

The third stage occurring between the ages of $25$ and $44$ years, where individuals enter the workforce, build their careers, gain experience, and aim to achieve stability and professional growth.

Maintenance Stage

The fourth stage occurring between the ages of $45$ and $64$ years, focusing on maintaining positions, improving performance, adapting to changes, and prioritizing stability and consistency.

Decline/Disengagement Stage

The final stage occurring from $65$ years and above, where individuals reduce work responsibilities, prepare for retirement, and transition focus toward personal life, family, and leisure.