Framings of Career Compromises: How Career Counselors Can Help

Abstract

Compromise is a significant component of career decisions as well as many other personal decisions. This article presents a conceptual model for dealing with career compromise and discusses its implications for the career counseling process. The model identifies three possible framings that individuals may adopt when facing compromise. Specifically, compromise may be framed in terms of career alternatives, the importance of different aspects, and within‐aspect preferences. The distinctions among the three framings have distinct implications for the career decision‐making process. Suggestions are discussed for relevant intervention options aimed at decreasing the potentially harmful effects of the need to compromise.