John L. Holland's Contributions to Vocational Psychology: A Review and Evaluation

John L. Holland pioneered in assessing the environments of colleges and universities and their influence on students. His research has been central in the development of knowledge about nonacademic accomplishments. His theory of vocational personalities and work environments revolutionized the delivery of vocational assistance worldwide. He made contributions to research on originality and interpersonal competence. And he influenced our field through his influence on other psychologists. Persistence, focus, horizon-scanning, the interpretation of evidence in novel ways, revision of ideas based on evidence, an emphasis on the practical, generosity with colleagues, and intellectual tension are themes that characterize Holland's working style and explain his enormous influence. Much remains to be done to fully explore and extend Holland's theoretical contributions in the areas of development and socialization, personal and environmental change, assessment and influences of environments, and effects of vocational interventions.