PSYC FPX 4900 Assessment 4 Respective Career Plan
The expectancy theory posits that individuals will behave based on their expectations of the consequences of their actions (Lawler III, 1973). I can relate to this theory, as I engage in behaviors with specific outcomes in mind. For instance, when working with a client whose behavior is escalating, I remain calm and speak in a soft voice, expecting them to gradually calm down. My goal is to de-escalate the situation, making it easier for me to listen to them, assist with tasks, and provide instruction. I believe the five values I have identified are among my strengths, and I will continue to leverage them to grow in my field.
I also completed the Work Values Card Sort, which helped me focus on the qualities and values I need in my work environment. The five most important values to me were advancement, creativity, impact, knowledge, and collaboration. It is essential for me to work in a field that offers opportunities for advancement. The ABA field provides such opportunities; for example, I currently work as a registered behavior technician, but with further education and experience, I could become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or even a Clinical Director. The ABA field also allows me to be creative, learn something new almost every day, collaborate with others, and make a significant impact on people’s lives.
Goals and Career Plans
My ultimate career goal is to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). To achieve this goal, I will need to pursue a master’s degree or a certificate program that meets the requirements set by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). Additionally, I must obtain the required supervision experience hours before I can sit for the BCBA certification exam. I have already begun taking the necessary steps toward becoming a BCBA, including researching master’s programs and narrowing my options to two specific universities. I have applied to these universities, and my acceptance is contingent upon completing my bachelor’s degree. I have also discussed obtaining my supervision hours with the ABA company where I am currently employed, and I will begin accruing these hours on the first day of classes for my master’s program. I genuinely believe that my skills, values, and qualities align with my chosen career path and educational goals.
Working as a BCBA
As a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), I will have the opportunity to utilize the skills and qualities that I value most. I will apply my creativity and build rapport while strengthening relationships during sessions with my clients and their families. Additionally, I will work with a diverse range of individuals, which will enhance my skills. Over the past three years in the field, I have discovered that it offers numerous opportunities for advancement, growth, and learning across various areas. There are several conferences and training sessions held annually for professionals in the ABA field. These events provide opportunities to expand knowledge and network with others who share similar interests and passions. The field is challenging, and no two days are alike. Most importantly, I will have the chance to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Working as a behavior therapist has been incredibly rewarding. I enjoy collaborating with my clients and witnessing their growth and acquisition of new skills daily. I take great pleasure in sharing the news with my clients’ parents when they discover a new skill or reduce maladaptive behaviors. These experiences are just a few reasons why I believe my professional career goals align with my values and interests.
Motivation
The self-determination theory emphasizes the importance of autonomy, competence, and understanding (Huang et al., 2016). When these needs are met, they enhance an individual’s motivation, leading to increased effort in the workplace (Huang et al., 2016). I interpret this to mean that I will be more motivated to perform my job effectively if I find enjoyment in my work. Enjoying what I do will not only drive me to work harder but also inspire me to expand my knowledge (Bayne, 2015). I believe that increased motivation and experience will benefit me professionally, as well as my clients and colleagues. I will provide my clients with exceptional therapy and support my team in doing the same. If my needs, values, and qualities are consistently met in my work environment, I will exert great effort and perform my job responsibilities to the best of my ability.
Action Plan
Having a plan of action is essential for achieving my career and educational goals. In this section, I will outline my career goals and the steps I need to take to accomplish them. My primary goal is to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). First, I need to successfully obtain my bachelor’s degree. I