This investigation examined the role of relationships with parents, siblings, and significant others in the career development process. Individual interviews were conducted to clarify the nature of these relationships and their association with career exploration and decision making. The narrative data were analyzed using consensual qualitative research methods as described by Hill, Thompson, and Williams. One of the most prominent factors in relational influence-particularly across the mother, father, and most important sibling domains-was the relationship as a multidimensional source of support. The results are discussed within the context of the core set of social support functions identified by Cutrona and Russell. Implications for theory and practice and directions for future research are offered.

The purpose of this investigation was to explore childhood career development by examining 4th‐ and 5th‐grade students' career and self‐awareness, exploration, and career planning. Responses to written assignments provided qualitative data for analysis. Written narrative data were analyzed using consensual qualitative research methods as described by C. E. Hill, B. J. Thompson, and E. N. Williams (1997). Consistent with theory (D. Super, 1990), children's reflections on prominent career tasks and influences revealed 8 of the 9 (all but curiosity) dimensions of childhood career development as outlined by Super. In addition, participants described their conceptions of work, a domain not explicitly articulated by Super and worthy of further inquiry.