Which statement best describes the primary aim of early vocational guidance as practiced in the period described?

• A. To assist individuals in finding a career
• B. To provide psychotherapy for students
• C. To train teachers in career assessment
• D. To research labor market trends

Answer: (A)

The essential aim of early vocational guidance was to help individuals find a suitable career by systematically matching a person’s abilities, interests, and resources with real occupational opportunities. This approach, championed by Frank Parsons, focused on a practical decision-making process: gather accurate information about the person, study what occupations require, and guide the individual to the best fit. It was about placement and informed choice rather than therapy, so it wasn’t primarily about psychotherapy, training teachers in assessments, or researching labor market trends. Therefore, assisting individuals in finding a career captures the primary goal of early vocational guidance.