Easy does it: an innovative view on developing career identity and self-direction

Purpose A generally held belief in the field of career development is that career attitudes and abilities, including identity and self-direction, can and should be developed in school programmes with a cognitive focus. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to question this belief, and second, to provide a new perspective on career development that may inspire innovations for career science, and guidance during the lifespan. Design/methodology/approach Specific questions are formulated and answered on the basis of sources mainly stemming from neurosciences and different sub-disciplines of psychology. On the basis of a systems theory, a new approach is proposed. Findings Current approaches in career guidance are at odds with findings and insights from developmental sciences and brain research. Several risks of current approaches are described. One risk is identity foreclosure. Another risk involves the development of ineffective ways of thinking and decision making. A control theory that stems from cybernetics is proposed to offer an alternative view on career development. Originality/value This paper questions a mainstream approach and offers an original point of view.