Enhancing group self- and career construction counselling: A review of outcome research

Abstract

This article reviews the outcomes of five purposely selected group career construction research projects conducted in a developing country context. Thematic data analysis was done on the results of these projects to identify qualitatively the strengths and areas for development (weaknesses) of the approach followed in these projects. The findings demonstrated the value of career constructing in contexts that differed substantially from the context in which the career construction counselling was originally developed. Overall, the quantitative findings in regard to career adaptability revealed that the women benefited more from the intervention than the men. The findings in regard to career decision-making difficulties also uncovered gender differences. The qualitative outcomes revealed that the participants’ psychological self as an autobiographical author benefited more from the intervention than either the social actor or the motivated agent. Future research should focus on the application of group career construction counselling with larger groups, using instruments based on career construction counselling theory developed locally. Moreover, given current developments (including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on employment), special emphasis should be placed on research among the unemployed.

Keywords: psychological self, integrative group career construction, Global South, unemployment