Development as a psychological phenomenon implies any change in time. However, scientists still disagree on what exactly changes and how it happens.
Instructions
Step 1
According to V. N. Karandashev, the concept of "development" is multifaceted. We can understand development as growth, that is, the process of quantitative change (accumulation) of the external features of an object, measured in height, length, thickness, etc. However, at the same time, development can mean maturation. In this case, the main component of the process is morphological changes occurring under the direct control of the genetic apparatus.
Step 2
Development can also be seen as improvement. In this case, the system of reactions and mental processes of a person, transforming the structure of his personality, will serve as the mechanism of development. This approach assumes the presence of a specific goal (perfect form of development). In psychology, this interpretation is most common. It is the process of improvement that makes people live, solve the assigned tasks, and achieve results.
Step 3
The concept of development is also used in social psychology, and specifically in the psychology of the masses. Here it can represent a universal change. Such general changes should occur in people of different cultures, religions, languages. At the same time, both a universal change in regional groups of people and international masses can be considered. The strong gap between developed countries and laggards can provide a clear example of such a development.
Step 4
In psychological counseling and psychotherapy, the concept of "development" is more often understood as a qualitative structural change. That is, in the process of counseling or therapy, a person completely and completely changes any characteristics that were previously characteristic of him. The worldview of a person, his value attitudes, personality traits are changing. In order to carry out this work, it takes many months. If a person's attitudes do not change during the year, then we can firmly say that the individual does not want to develop.
Step 5
The last category can also include the concept of "development" as a change entailing a new development. That is, only those changes that entail a new change can be considered development. A kind of avalanche of changes is taking place. In everyday life, this interpretation is called the "butterfly effect". Everything that is done by a person entails any consequences, whether it is a trip to the store or the signing of an agreement between countries.
