Abilities, Interests, and Values: Their Assessment and their Integration via the World-of-Work Map

Abstract

This article describes assessments of work-relevant abilities, interests, and values and how the World-of-Work Map (WWM) can be used to link them to (a) each other, (b) Holland’s hexagon, (c) basic work tasks, (d) occupational groups, and (e) occupations. The assessments and their linkage procedures, which are implemented in the Career Planning Survey and DISCOVER (a computer-based service), are intended for use with persons in the early stages of career planning or replanning. A case study illustrates how results of the assessments are integrated and linked to career options. Then, the theory, practical considerations, and research supporting the career counseling use of self-estimates of work-relevant abilities are discussed. Next, the three assessment instruments are described, and the research contributing to the WWM’s 2000 update is summarized. Finally, an aid is provided for using the WWM with any assessments of Holland’s types (e.g., those discussed in this journal issue).