National Counselor Exam (NCE)

Which theory suggests individuals make career choices based on their competencies?

1. Krumboltz's Social Learning Theory

2. Super's Developmental Theory

3. Hollands's Theory of Career Choice

4. Hoppock's Needs Theory

The correct answer is: Super's Developmental Theory

The theory that suggests individuals make career choices based on their competencies is Super's Developmental Theory. This theory emphasizes that career development is a lifelong process, where individuals' self-concept plays a crucial role in career decisions. Super proposed that people are more likely to choose careers that align with their perceived abilities and that they derive satisfaction from careers that fit their competencies. The theory also introduces the concept of "life stages," indicating that career choices evolve as individuals gain experience and insight into their skills and interests over time. Hollands's Theory of Career Choice, while relevant to career development, focuses more on personality types and how they align with vocational environments rather than directly addressing the competencies individuals possess. Similarly, Krumboltz's Social Learning Theory emphasizes the role of learning experiences and social influences in career choice. Hoppock's Needs Theory is centered on the idea that career choices are influenced by personal needs and job satisfaction, rather than emphasizing individual competencies as a primary factor in decision-making.