Emerging Perspectives: Calling, Meaning, and Volition

This chapter summarizes the emerging research, theory, and practice implications stemming from these three variables. Work volition is usually considered a prerequisite to living a calling or experiencing meaningful work; that is, a sense of calling and meaningfulness are more likely when people feel they have the capacity to make choices. The career construction theory and psychology of working theory (PWT) offer helpful strategies for assisting clients in finding or creating satisfying work, and while work volition is a core PWT variable, none of the major career theories specifically address questions of work meaningfulness. In many areas of psychology, theories are articulated and then subsequently tested by programs of research. Contemporary social science scholarship on meaningful work begins with the assumption that work is an important pillar of a fulfilling life. Inclusion of work volition in career development models gained traction when volition was presented as a key variable in the psychology of working framework.