Optimal Life-Careers

This book provides an original research study on the life-career development experiences of new and recent immigrant professionals to Canada. Literature addressing Canada’s immigrant professionals has primarily focused on the negative aspects of migration and life-career transition, such as barriers, discrimination and underemployment. Surprisingly few studies have explored how, in spite of personal and environmental barriers, some new Canadians have flourished in their new country. The purpose of this study is to explore the lived experiences of immigrant professionals who believe they have successfully transitioned in the life-career domains. While recognizing difficulties and roadblocks, the book presents a unique insight in the career development field. Twenty individuals were interviewed using a grounded theory approach. Analysis revealed that internal and external factors contributed or hindered their life-career trajectories. Meaning making, social support and behavioural coping emerged as primary coping strategies. Issues with language and accreditation emerged as significant barriers to life-career development. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed.