Abstract:
In this study the researcher intends to explore the influence of life design counselling on the self-efficacy of a learner from an environment challenged by disadvantage. Learners and youth from environments challenged by disadvantage have the tendency to feel disempowered by the situation in which they find themselves. Such situations are often characterised by unemployment, thus leaving them in uncertainty about the future and threatens their identity. According to Bandura (1977) people’s achievement is determined by the interaction between their behaviour, personal factors and the environment.
An investigation into the influence of life design counselling on the contextual experiences of the participant will be informed by career construction theory (Savickas, 2005) and self-construction theory (Guichard, 2005) which are both based on the constructivist paradigm. Increasing the participant’s resources is pivotal given that career paths are influenced by individual and contextual factors, this study will employ a mixed methods research approach (qualitative approaches will be prioritised QUAL+quan) with a case study design. In order to improve the effectiveness of such an assessment the following data collection techniques will be used: Quantitative – Maree Career Matrix, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, and Career Adapt –Ability Scale; Qualitative – Career Interest Profile, Structured questionnaires and interview, life line, collage, observations, and researcher’s journal. The data collected will be analysed and interpreted by means of thematic content analysis.
The researcher hopes to make recommendations that are meaningful for the self- and career construction of the participant, life design counselling practice, research and policy development that will be appropriate for contexts challenged by disadvantages.
