Retreat occurs in situation where there is high challenge and low support. Because there is a lack of support, learners can become very anxious; develop reduced self-esteem and limited confidence in their abilities to achieve.

Growth is achieved where support and challenge are matched. Balancing each factor creates collaborative opportunities to explore the learner’s career aspirations.

Confirmation occurs when there is low challenge and high support. This is when the learner is very much a novice in the situation and lacks confidence. Here the balance between support and challenge needs to be carefully tipped towards support so that the learner develops confidence in their abilities.

Stasis occurs where there is low challenge and low support. In this case the learners is not supported or encouraged to develop.  The learner is very likely to become frustrated, resentful and disillusioned, often feeling that they are wasting their time.