Several predictors of occupational choice derived from a theory of careers (Holland, 1973) were examined. Hypotheses that a person's competencies, activities, self-estimates, interests, and vocational choices can be organized by a six-category typology to understand and predict subsequent choice were tested. Samples of 894 men and 989 women took…

Holland's (1973) theory of vocational choice proposes a typology of, and a match between, people and occupations. The Self Directed Search (SDS) can be used to assess people's occupational orientation types. To assess the construct validity of Holland's theory of occupational preferences, 171 female industrial workers participated in a study,…

A sample of male Investigative subjects (N=171) who completed the SDS as freshmen in 1970 was sent a questionnaire four years later. Results indicated that, for Investigative-type freshman males, the SDS has moderately high efficiency in predicting, four years later, their ultimate major and their immediate and future vocational plans. (Author)

Career status measures, goals for participating in career intervention, and ego strength were related to six outcomes of the administration of the Self-Directed Search. Most change occurred for females high on vocational identity; most satisfaction with the SDS and job choice was attained by those low in indecision. (Author)

The Vocational Preference Inventory (VPI) and the Self-Directed Search (SDS) were administered to 102 Black women workers in occupational environments consistent with Holland's six vocational environments. Four scales in each test successfully differentiated the occupational groups, supporting the concurrent validity of Holland's theory for…

Tests Holland's assertion that stability of vocational choice can be predicted from: (a) congruence of personality with chosen career; (b) differentiation of personality; and (c) internal consistency of personality characteristics. The relationship of three constructs to stability of choice of college major was studied among 167 university…

High school males (N=66) and 60 high school females were tested for anxiety and vocational maturity levels. The experimental subjects were given the Self Directed Search (SDS). Statistical analysis indicated that the SDS was an effective instrument in reducing career indecision. (Author)

A comparison of Self-Scoring Error Rate for Self Directed Search (SDS) and the revised SDS is presented. The subjects were college freshmen and sophomores who participated in career planning as a part of their orientation program, and a career workshop. Subjects, N=190 on first study and N=84 on second study, were then randomly assigned to the SDS…