Careers and Socialization

Abstract

This review examines important developments in the field of socialization and careers since the mid-1970's, a period during which the field has come into maturity. Definitions of the two concepts are examined. Putting the two concepts together, career is viewed as a longterm "bundle" of socialization experiences, as the person moves in, through, and out of various work-related roles over the span of his or her work life. A career spectrum is used to organize the literature. Three general areas are examined, from micro to macro: individual processes, person-environment interaction processes, and institutional processes. Areas of relative strength and weakness in the literature are assessed, and conclusions for the practicing manager are presented.