Psychology of Working Theory (PWT) has been increasingly adopted by counseling and vocational psychologists since its inception in 2016, and approximately 100 quantitative studies to date have tested various propositions of the Theory. As a relatively new theory, there has been lack of consistency in how the main constructs are conceptualized and measured by scholars, thus limiting further application of PWT. The following paper is aimed at addressing this inconsistency by providing a guide for researchers interested in using PWT as a theoretical framework in their studies. First, we provide an overview of PWT and the definitions of its core constructs: economic constraints, marginalization, work volition, career adaptability, decent work, and need satisfaction. Then, we review quantitative studies conducted to date to show how each of the constructs have been conceptualized and measured. Finally, we provide specific recommendations that researchers can follow in their future studies based on this review. It is hoped that the recommendations can provide a more streamlined way of measuring the constructs as well as ideas for researchers to expand the psychology of working literature.

Because military special forces carry out dangerous missions, they are much more exposed to adversities and traumatic events compared to other occupational groups. According to Posttraumatic Growth theory, individuals tend to obtain positive growth through adversities. Moreover, a framework of Psychosocial Gains from Adversity argues not only individual changes but also social changes in the group to which the individual belongs are induced. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the adverse experiences of special forces operatives and delineate the positive shift at an individual and social level via Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR). Eight individuals serving in special forces at the Korean Army, Navy and Air Force were interviewed using a semi-structured protocol. Four domains including 10 categories and 34 subcategories were identified: (a) Adverse experiences; (b) Personal change; (c) Social change; and (d) Attributes related to adverse experience. The findings and clinical implications are discussed in light of growth over facing adversities and interaction between personal and social factors.

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