Linking a Structure of Vocational Interests to Gottfredson's (1986) Occupational Aptitude Patterns Map

Abstract

Gottfredson (1986) created the Occupational Aptitude Patterns (OAP) Map, an aptitude-based classification system covering most occupations in the U.S. labor force. Her job rating data also suggested an overlapping and complementary vocational interest structure for four Functional Work Areas (Physical, Bureaucratic, Social and Economic, and Artistic). To research this further in an age- and gender-diverse sample of clients seeking vocational guidance (N= 320), the present study classified Strong Interest InventoryOccupationsitems (Hansen & Campbell, 1985) into OAP Map clusters. Principal components analysis of the cluster scores generally supported this interest structure. Results suggest potential for developing the OAP Map as a theoretical and practical job classification taxonomy, with the general purpose of improving person–job fit or congruence with respect to job performance and job satisfaction.