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Complexity, Chaos, and Nonlinear Dynamics: A New Perspective on Career Development Theory
Author(s) -
Bloch Deborah P.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
the career development quarterly
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.846
H-Index - 53
eISSN - 2161-0045
pISSN - 0889-4019
DOI - 10.1002/j.2161-0045.2005.tb00990.x
Subject(s) - attractor , fractal , nonlinear system , complex adaptive system , career development , perspective (graphical) , chaos theory , order (exchange) , dynamics (music) , statistical physics , limit (mathematics) , development (topology) , complex dynamics , computer science , sociology , epistemology , mathematics , psychology , physics , artificial intelligence , economics , social psychology , mathematical analysis , philosophy , pedagogy , finance , quantum mechanics , chaotic
The author presents a theory of career development drawing on nonlinear dynamics and chaos and complexity theories. Career is presented as a complex adaptive entity, a fractal of the human entity. Characteristics of complex adaptive entities, including (a) autopiesis , or self‐regeneration; (b) open exchange; (c) participation in networks; (d) fractals; (e) phase transitions between order and chaos, (f) search for fitness peaks; (g) nonlinear dynamics; (h) sensitive dependence, (i) attractors that limit growth; (j) the role of strange attractors in emergence; and (k) spirituality, are described and then applied to careers. The article concludes with a brief case analysis and implications for practice and research.