Decision Theory and Vocational Counseling: Important Concepts and Questions

Abstract

Ignorance of specifics of career decision‐making processes has prevented development and use of more effective vocational counseling procedures. Simply giving clients vocational information and assuming rational use of it is criticized. Contemporary decision theories suggest several relevant variables. Two variables, subjective probabilities (individual's self‐estimates of success) and utilities (desirabilities held for outcomes or alternatives), are discussed in relation to presenting clients with objective probability information concerning future plans. Some relevant research is reviewed and two questions are discussed: (1) How do different methods of presenting information influence subjective probabilities? (2) How are utilities influenced by objective probability data?

Decision Behavior and Outcome of Midlife Career Changers

“…Both the incremental and rational decision approaches use the concept of expected utility (Dilley, 1966(Dilley, , 1967Thoresen & Mehrens, 1967) whereby decisions are theoretically made on the basis of whether a desirable outcome (utility) is likely to occur (expected). Thoresen and Mehrens emphasize that choice is influenced not only by objective probability (e.g., an expectancy table) but by subjective probability (a person's self-estimate of likelihood to succeed), along with utility.…”

A Decision-Making Model Applied to Career Counseling

“…Either or both of these influences become particularly problematic in decision-making when they dictate choice by loading heavily on a particular alternative. (Recall the client who opted to go into the family business to avoid being &dquo;disowned.&dquo;) Nevo (1987) has provided a very helpful set of career-relevant concepts to include when applying cognitive restructuring to such clients; and Thoresen and Mehrens (1967) suggest using peer models to improve the accuracy of probability estimation.…”

Behavioral Self-Control and Career Development

“…That is, the person needs to anticipate possible outcomes of his actions. In general, two kinds of outcome predictions can be made: probability estimates and utility estimates (Mischel & Masters, 1966;Thoresen & Mehrens, 1967). Probability estimates are used in establishing the range of alternatives, and the likelihood of attaining them.…”

“…Subjective expectancies of the clients often disagree TTith the ,objective information and estimates provided by the counselor (Thoresen & Mehrens, 1967) .…”