Who proposed the social cognitive career theory?

The social cognitive career theory was proposed by Lent, Brown, and Hackett. This theory integrates concepts from Bandura's social cognitive theory and emphasizes the role of self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and personal goals in the career decision-making process. It highlights how individuals' beliefs about their capabilities, along with their perceptions of the tasks they might face in their career journeys, significantly influence their choices and the paths they pursue.

The model illustrates that external factors such as environmental influences and individual experiences can shape career development. By prioritizing the individual's perceptions and cognitions, Lent, Brown, and Hackett created a framework that allows for a deeper understanding of how various factors interplay to influence career paths.

Other theorists mentioned, while important in their respective areas, did not specifically propose this particular theory. Krumboltz, for instance, focused on learning theory in career counseling, and Sampson's work typically centers on career decision-making models rather than this particular theory. Thus, recognizing Lent, Brown, and Hackett as the originators of social cognitive career theory is essential in understanding how cognitive processes affect career development.