Date of Award

Summer 2019

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Committee Chair

Emily Bullock Yowell

Committee Chair Department

Psychology

Committee Member 2

Melanie Leuty

Committee Member 2 Department

Psychology

Committee Member 3

Randolph Arnau

Committee Member 3 Department

Psychology

Committee Member 4

Ashley Batastini

Committee Member 4 Department

Psychology

Abstract

The current study sought to expand the knowledge of latent profiles of vocational interest that are interpreted from a theory-driven perspective. The current study utilized a measure of Holland’s RIASEC interest types as a source of data to explore possible profiles through latent profile analysis. Using an MTurk sample of 303 adults, seven profiles were interpreted in the context of Holland’s theory, specifically using diagnostic signs of the theory to explain possible profile membership. The seven profiles were coined Low Profile Elevation, High Consistency SIA, Moderate Consistency Conventional Investigative, Undifferentiated, High Differentiation Conventional Dominant, High Consistency Investigative Artistic, and High Profile Elevation. Additionally, the relationship between Five Factor Model personality variables and the profiles was explored. Extraversion and Openness to Experience were found to significantly differ across profiles. However, only Extraversion did so in the manner hypothesized. Sex was also utilized in the model to explore sex membership in the profiles, but no significant differences were found. Findings highlight the importance of career counseling practitioners’ attention to the individual differences in vocational interests, specifically the incorporation of diagnostic signs in the interpretation of interest inventory results.

ORCID ID

0000-0003-3005-6702

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