Occupational Aspirations in Career Development: A Theoretical Deep Dive
Occupational aspirations are more than ambitions — they are dynamic reflections of who we are and who we aim to become. Rooted in self-concept, shaped by social space, and driven by cultural and motivational forces, aspirations evolve throughout a career. This article synthesizes foundational and developmental theories to explain how aspirations form, shift, and guide individuals toward resilient and meaningful career paths.