The positive mutually reinforcing dynamics of career-adaptive attributes in career human agency

Abstract

Background: Empirical research on career-adaptive attributes that elucidate the dynamic interplay between resources of career self-reactiveness and career self-reflectiveness in career human agency theory (CHAT) is scant.

Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the simultaneous interplay between constructs of career self-reactiveness (career adaptability, psychological capital, career agility) and constructs of career self-reflectiveness (career resilience and career satisfaction).

Methods: The cross-sectional canonical correlational design of the study involved a random sample of black African employees (N = 412) in a South African public service government organisation.

Results: Adaptive readiness, goal-directed adaptability and career forethought and intentionality in goal achievement emerged as four common synthetic themes that illustrated the mutually reinforcing dynamics among the study variables.

Conclusion: The reciprocal associations among the study variables offer promising support for career counselling interventions that apply the CHAT. The findings may guide the use of career assessments for career-adaptive behaviours that help cultivate career human agency.

Contribution: The study contributed to career development in the African context by enriching understanding of the role of individuals’ adaptive readiness, goal-directed adaptability, career forethought and career intentionality in agentic career goal achievement.