Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CPLP Practice Questions and Study Guide

Super's framework identifies five distinct phases that careers move through from childhood to adulthood. These phases—growth, exploration, establishment, maintenance, and decline—reflect the developmental progress individuals make as they navigate their careers.

The growth phase typically occurs during childhood, where individuals begin to understand the world of work and develop their self-concept. In the exploration phase, which generally happens during late adolescence and early adulthood, individuals actively explore various career options and begin to make decisions about their career paths.

The establishment phase follows, where individuals settle into their chosen careers and strive for advancement. The maintenance phase represents a period where individuals work to sustain their established careers, often refining their skills and adapting to changes in their job or industry. Finally, the decline phase occurs as individuals prepare for retirement and may withdraw from the workforce.

Understanding these phases helps individuals recognize the typical progression of their careers and the developmental tasks that accompany each stage, assisting them in making informed career choices and adjustments throughout their lives.