Question: Application: Applying Theory to Specific Settings and Populations

Understanding theories, ways to explain/represent a complex phenomenon - is necessary if you want to be of use to your clients who have vocational/career issues. Knowing the settings that particular theories best fit, their strengths and weaknesses, and how to apply them will make you a more effective counselor. As your text states, "Not all of these theories will be equally applicable across the needs and stages of various career clients, and not all will be equally applicable to all populations" (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2006, p. 62).

In this Application, you will examine the various theories and select some that you believe might (would) be most appropriate to the clients with whom you (will) work.

To prepare for this assignment:

• Review Chapters 2 and 3 of the course text, focusing on the various theories (noting how they are related within categories).

• Think about how each of the theories or perspectives relates to vocational/career counseling.

• Think about how these theories relate to your specialty area (clinical, educational, business, or other setting) and to the client population you (will) serve.

• Select at least two theories that you think will or would be most broadly appropriate and efficacious for your setting and client population.

The assignment: (2-3 pages)

• Briefly describe your work setting and client population.*

• Briefly summarize the two theories you have selected.

• Compare/Contrast them: Describe the similarities they share and their major differences.

• Explain the strengths of these two theories as they relate to your setting and client population.

• Describe the weaknesses you would have to address and, briefly, how you would address them.

• Finally, briefly explain how you would apply these theories in your practice.