Psychological effects of disengagement from a work life and the transition to retirement are discussed. These effects include partial identity disruption, decision paralysis, diminished self trust, experience of a post retirement void, the search for meaningful engagement in society, development of a retirement/life structure, the confluence of…

A sample of 506 professional counselors who were members of the American Counseling Association completed measures of professional quality of life, career-sustaining behaviors (CSBs), and wellness. Significant differences were found both within the sample based on caseload characteristics and between the participants and available norm groups.…

End-of-life care is continuously becoming an issue of paramount importance given an increase in medical advances, the aging of the population, and the movement toward contributing toward a quality of life among terminally ill patients. However, there is a dearth in literature related to this topic specifically in terms of preparing counselors to…

The purpose of this article is to initiate an effort to establish the constructs calling and vocation within counseling psychology. First, updated definitions of calling and vocation, developed with an eye toward stimulating research and providing useful practice applications, are proposed. Next, the authors explain how the constructs apply to the…

Individuals have increasingly recognized the role that guidance for learning and work can play in encouraging adults to achieve their educational and personal goals. This pack of materials was designed to help those who offer guidance to adults and take a pro-active approach to developing quality assurance. These seven booklets are intended for…

Discusses the concept of quality of life as it relates to aging and as it is addressed in research studies. Describes counseling intervention strategies that are designed to help middle-aged older adults manage their lives. Focuses specifically on prevention, self-management and education, and life enrichment and renewal strategies. (ML)

Career counselors frequently encounter clients who are at high risk for career and life development difficulties. Research suggests there is a connection between resiliency and successful career development in high-risk clients. Many high-risk individuals have poor decision-making skills and lack motivation to succeed in life and career…

This article examines the process of identity development in gifted adolescents and provides a theoretical and research-based explanation of its importance for influencing achievement and quality of life in adulthood. Teachers, counselors, and parents can use "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (Rowling, 1997) as a springboard into discussion…

With the many layoffs and downsizing of companies during the 1990s, many displaced workers have turned to temporary employment to earn a living while looking for permanent employment. Others have adopted "temping" as a more long-term work style. Although it may not be possible to predict whether an individual will find satisfaction or…

This manual examines the ways in which the Michigan Occupational Information System (MOIS) can be used to facilitate career decision making. The programs featured serve a variety of client groups and can be administered by teachers, counselors, social workers, librarians, and paraprofessionals. The program descriptions, activities, and exercises…