Professions are recognised occupations that require specialised knowledge, training, and skills. Entry into professions is gained through high level qualifications, such as university degrees. The theoretical knowledge base and profession-specific qualifications distinguish professions from other occupations and create a unique identity for them and their members. Professions have defined entry pathways that assist members who practise in the field (practitioners) to construct their professional identity. Governments regulate entry to some professions, such as teaching and psychology. Career development lacks the regulation of other professions and the entry pathway is less defined. This article considers the professional status of career development against a critical reflection on professions, professionalism and professionalisation, and professional identity construction. Potential implications of the differences between career development and other professions related to professional standards and regulation are discussed and questions posed about the construction of a professional identity for the field and its members.

中文翻译：

---

职业发展：专业与否？

专业是公认的需要专业知识、培训和技能的职业。进入专业是通过高水平的资格获得的，例如大学学位。理论知识基础和专业资格将专业与其他职业区分开来，并为他们及其成员创造独特的身份。专业定义了进入途径，帮助在该领域实践的成员（从业者）构建他们的专业身份。政府监管某些职业的准入，例如教学和心理学。职业发展缺乏对其他职业的监管，进入途径不明确。本文从对职业、专业化和专业化的批判性反思来考虑职业发展的职业地位，和职业身份建设。讨论了职业发展与其他职业之间与职业标准和法规相关的差异的潜在影响，并提出了有关为该领域及其成员构建职业身份的问题。