Cultural Validity of Holland’s Theory and the Strong Interest Inventory for Five Racial/Ethnic Groups

Abstract

This study examined evidence for the use of the Strong Interest Inventory with diverse populations, including examination of the structure of interests across five racial/ethnic groups, finding similarity in perceptions of the world of work. The study also studied differences in means for the General Occupational Themes and Basic Interest Scales as well as assessed differences in consistency and differentiation across five racial/ethnic groups for career clients. Overall, the pattern of results suggests minimal differences based on racial/ethnic group membership but more meaningful group differences based on gender.