Trait and Factor

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Trait and Factor
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Trait-Factor Theory

• Developed by Frank Parsons (1900-1910) and is the
  oldest of modern theories of vocational choice.

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Trait-Factor Theory Continued

• Relies heavily upon psychometric measures.
• Is the basis for many vocational counseling
  programs.
• Implies that there is an ideal job for everyone.

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Trait and Factor

• Traits The individual characteristics and
• attributes
• Factor All the important factors needed to
• perform well
• A good match between individuals traits
• and the necessary factors will produce a
• good match.

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Essence of Trait-Factor Theory

• Individuals are interested in work which match
  their own individual traits and competencies.
• To find a job for an individual
• ---Measure their traits and preferences.
• ---Examine what factors the jobs requires and how
  they are structured.
• ---Find the best match.

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Advantages and Limitations of Trait-Factor Theory

• Advantages
• ---Makes sense is easy to understand.
• ---Fits well with other theories of career
  choice.
• Disadvantages
• ---Is it a theory?
• ---Doesnt account for changes in the individual
  over time.
• ---Downplays the role of counseling.

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Trait-Factor Theory
r
Employee
Individual
Programmer E
It skills Methodological Creative Works on
own Initiative
Teamwork Leadership Com. Skills Organisation Creat
ive It skills

• Interests
• Values
• Aptitudes
• Abilities
• Skills

Degree of match
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Trait-Factor Theory
Employer
Employee
Employer
Employee
Interests Values Aptitudes Skills Abilities

• Interests
• Values
• Aptitudes
• Abilities
• Skills

Interests Values Aptitudes Skills Abilities
Satisfactoriness
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• Your work is to discover your world
• and then with all your heart
• give yourself to it.