A Partial Validation of Holland's Theory of Vocational Choice.

Holland postulates six personality types, to which he relates vocational choice as the expression of one's needs and personality. This study was designed to validate one of these types, which he designated as Social. One hundred and nine occupational therapy students were administered six tests which measured needs, personality factors, self concept, anxiety levels and interpersonal behaviors. The general findings indicated that occupational therapists corresponded to the social personality type description given by Holland. Comparisons with other social type groups give some, though equivocal, support to the concept of social type as well as pointing out the need for further validation of each personality type and each occupation included in the typology. (Author/TL)