Existential and Chaos Theory

Abstract

Although the skills promoted by career decision-making models based on information processing, social cognition, and person–environment fit are necessary for general career success, they insufficiently meet the demands of a global society and the current economy. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of two holistic approaches to career decision making: existential and the chaos theory of careers. We propose that these models are more suitable for today’s working world insofar as they promote career adaptability, vocation/calling (beyond job), and moral responsibility in work in the postmodern era. However, because their utility has not yet been extensively researched (despite ample theoretical exposure in the career literature), these models remain relatively unfamiliar to most career counselors. For each model, we provide a theoretical overview, review existing research, and propose areas for further study to identify contexts for which each model may be best suited.