Examining Differentiation of Self Within Career Construction Model of Adaptation

Abstract

The present study examined the role of differentiation of self (DoS) in the career construction model of adaptation (CCMA) using a total sample of 243 married adults. Specifically, career construction theory (CCT) was extended by integrating Bowen family systems theory (BFST) and incorporating DoS as an adaptivity construct into the model. The data displayed a good fit to the model, and all hypothesized associations were supported. The direct paths from DoS to career adaptability, job, life, and marital satisfaction were positive and significant, as were the paths from career adaptability to job, life, and marital satisfaction. Furthermore, the mediation effect of career adaptability between DoS and job, life, and marital satisfaction was also significant. Based on these results, the implications and future research directions were discussed.