Vocational Identity
In: Career Development in Childhood and AdolescenceSearch for other papers by Vladimir B. Skorikov in
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This chapter provides an overview of theory and research on vocational identity in childhood and adolescence within the framework of the developmental contextual approach to career development. Vocational identity is a core structure within selfconcept characterised by clarity, coherence, and stability of perceived occupational motivation and abilities. Vocational identity undergoes a series of developmental transformations in childhood and adolescence as a result of occupational and self exploration and commitment shaped by the individual characteristics and social context. The process of vocational identity formation can lead to achieving an individualised, self-chosen identity, identity foreclosure, or identity confusion. In modern, post-industrial societies, acquiring an adaptive, flexible, self-focused vocational identity is an important contributor to career success and satisfaction.