Stages of career development consistent with age were found in a group of managers, who tended to attribute career success to inherent abilities, education, and developmental work experiences. Trends among three age groups were similar in regard to factors perceived as enhancing or adversely affecting career development. (Author)

Young (N=38) and 2( older career changers in business-managerial occupations were compared to 45 young and 40 older vocationally stable controls with respect to several characteristics. Results showed career changers were characterized by high incongruity, emotional maladjustment, and fear of failure, and low differentiation and consistency of…

Reviews the findings of Lehman's study of age and outstanding occupational achievement along with the explanations of why major contributions most likely occur in young adulthood. Proposes an alternative explanation based on the central developmental tasks facing individuals in young adulthood and middle age. (JAC)