The Psychology of Agriculture for Sustainable Work and Careers

This conceptual paper explores the psychological dimensions of agricultural work. Agriculture is a cornerstone of human civilisation and a critical domain for achieving global sustainability. Multiple sectors in agriculture's diverse value chain face challenges related to climate change, labour shortages, supply chains and transport, production and storage, and technological transformation. Psychology, particularly vocational psychology and career development, offers valuable theoretical and empirical insights and interventions for individuals’ career development and the industry's workforce development. The paper includes examples from a program of research and development pertaining to aspects of agriculture including on-farm labouring work, mechanical and machinery work, technology adoption, and career education. We propose an agenda for advancing psychological theory, research, and practice for better understanding and enhancing career development in and for agriculture.