Realistic type, in vocational psychology dictionary

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Dictionary of Vocational Psychology

Realistic Type

One of six types of personality proposed by John Holland in his theory of vocational personalities and work environments (Holland, 1997). The other five are Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. Realistic types tend to prefer the organized, systematic manipulation of physical objects (e.g., tools, machines) or animals or plants. They tend to dislike activities that require educational or therapeutic actions. Realistic types perceive themselves as practical, normal and natural, genuine, frank, humble, and grounded in the here and now. However, others may view them as uninsightful, inflexible, hard-headed, conforming, asocial and uninvolved, materialistic, and stingy. They often have skills in mechanical, agricultural, or athletic areas. They tend to value concrete reflections of the good things in life, e.g., status, power, and money.

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