Career Assessment and Psychological Impairment: Integrating Inter-Domain and Work Dysfunctions Theory

Abstract

This article addresses issues of career assessment among individuals with psychological dysfunctions. It integrates the author's inter-domain (interest-ability-personality) theory of career assessment (Lowman, 1991) and his theory of work dysfunctions (Lowman, 1993, 1996) for purposes of career assessment and counseling with persons experiencing psychological problems. Hypotheses are generated consistent with the interaction of the two theories. Specifically, certain psychological conditions are predicted to be more commonly associated with particular occupational profiles. Implications for career assessment and counseling practice are suggested.