1. Gottfredson’s Theory of Circumscription and Compromise
PSY 714
Instructor: Emily E. Bullock, Ph.D.

2. Class Exercise Demonstrates The Occupational Map concept
Social self-concept
Circumscription
Social space

3. The Theory of Circumscription and Compromise
Focuses on how young people gradually come to recognize and deal with the array of vocational choices their society provides
A “matching” theory that emphasizes the importance of occupational information and early intervention
Attempts to address the impact one’s status in society and personal variables have on career choice

4. 4 Developmental Processes
Cognitive Growth
Self-Creation
Circumscription
Compromise -

5. Four Stages of Circumscription
Stage 1: Orientation to Size and Power
Stage 2: Orientation to Sex Roles
Stage 3: Orientation to Social Valuation
Stage 4: Orientation to Internal, Unique Self

6. Stages 1 & 2 of Circumscription
Sex Roles
(elementary school)
Stage 1:
Size and Power
(preschool)
Male
roles
Firefighter
Truck driver Doctor
Female
roles
Nurse
Teacher
Secretary
Big, powerful
Adult roles
Worker
Parent
Little,
Child

7. Stages 3 & 4 of Circumscription
Internal, unique self
(high school and beyond)
Stage 3:
Social valuation
(middle school)
High
Doctor I A
Artist
High prestige
Sales
manager E R
Miner
Doctor
Social S
worker
Teacher C
File
clerk
Nurse
Firefighter
Secretary
Low prestige
Truck Driver
Low
Male Neutral Female
Male Neutral Female

9. 3 Factors in the Compromise Process
Truncated Search, Limited Knowledge
Bigger Investment, Better Accessibility
The Good Enough or Not Too Bad

10. L. Gottfredson’s Stance on Intelligence
Sees intellectual ability of a client to be an important consideration in career development as well as other areans (L. Gottfredson 2007, 2005, 2004, 2003, 1997, 1986, 1984)
Holds that psychological science and helping professionals often ignore difference in intelligence (or the “g” factor)
How do you feel about discussing ability level and intelligence with clients as they are moving through the career development process?

11. Theory of Circumscription and Compromise in Practice
See Comprehensive Career Guidance and Counseling System Handout
Evaluation of the Theory of Circumscription and Compromise
How might you use this theory?
How do the constructs of this theory compare to others we have discussed? -