Chapter 22: Pre- and Post-Secondary Career Selection: A Process for Mentorship and Identity Development

Post-secondary career selection is a process that is comprised of many concrete and hypothetical variables that are not only influenced by the external world, but also by the internal cognitions of the adolescent. This chapter examines both Erikson’s (1968) and Marcia’s (1980) theories of identity attainment with respect to the qualitative cognitive and social processes through which the adolescent transitions. This chapter also explores the applicative and conjunctive use of Baumrind’s (1971) Parental Style Theory when combined with the basic premises of identity formation. Specifically, Baumrind’s (1971) authoritative parenting style is discussed within the context of career mentor characteristics. The union of these theories holds particular promise for the development of career strategies and activities that uniquely and simultaneously address the distinct identity changes of adolescence and the emotional and behavioral patterns of the authoritative mentor.