Career Pattern Theory (CPT) is a theoretical framework that examines the changing roles and responsibilities in one’s career. It is used to explore the dynamics of career development and to map out different pathways to career success. CPT focuses on the way an individual’s career evolves over time and the changing patterns of behaviour that can be observed in different circumstances.
The theory was first introduced by Dr. Eileen Appelbaum and Dr. Robert Appelbaum in their book, Career Patterns: A Study of Careers in the U.S. Air Force (1992). The book analyzed the careers of more than 800 individuals in the Air Force and found that the career paths of individuals in the service followed a pattern of predictable changes over the span of their careers. The Appelbaums identified four distinct career patterns: Technical Track, Administrative Track, Support Track, and Specialized Track. Each career pattern was defined by its own set of roles and responsibilities, which varied from one pattern to the next.
CPT has since been used to explain the career paths of individuals in a variety of settings, including the military, education, business, and government. Research has shown that when career paths are studied along the lines of CPT, patterns of behaviour emerge that can help guide career planning and development. For example, some individuals may progress from a technical to an administrative role over the course of their career, while others may move from a support role to a specialized role. Understanding the career pattern of an individual can help to identify the best career development strategies for that individual.
CPT offers a framework for understanding the various paths that people take in their careers. It can be used to identify career pathways that are best suited for an individual’s skills and interests. In addition, CPT can be used to map out career trajectories and to develop career plans that are tailored to the individual’s needs.
References
Appelbaum, E., & Appelbaum, R. (1992). Career patterns: A study of careers in the U.S. Air Force. New York: Free Press.
Gillies, R., & McIlveen, P. (2013). Career development: Theory and practice. Los Angeles: Sage.
Heppner, P. P., & Heppner, M. J. (2011). Career counseling: A psychological approach. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
Kirby, L. N., & Krumboltz, J. D. (2009). Career counseling: A holistic approach. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.