This theory suggests that each person has their own mental framework from which they see the world.
During much of his early life, Kelly’s education was limited to teachings from his parents.
Kelly initially planned on a career in engineering but shifted to educational sociology at the University of Kansas.
Martin Barraud / Getty Images
Before completing his master’s, however, he left to enroll at the University of Minnesota.
In 1931, Kelly completed a PhD inpsychologyfrom the University of Iowa.
He began teaching at Fort Hays State University in 1931.
Judy Hedding
In contrast, Kelly used his observations to develop the idea he called constructive alternativism.
In this approach, each individual has a unique construction, or perspective, of reality.
Although some are better than others, no single interpretation is complete or totally accurate.
It was here that he formally developed his personal construct theory.
Examples of Personal Construct Theory
Personal constructs are bipolar: They’re composed of two opposing sides.
Constructs are unique to each person because they develop in response to the individual’s unique experiences.
Thus, different people might approach the same experience in different ways.
Adventure vs. Risk
One person might view new experiences as exciting opportunities for adventure.
Another person might view the same experience as a risky, frightening prospect that disturbs their peace.
Judy Hedding
Friendly vs.
Unfriendly
Imagine that two friends are at the park when a dog runs toward them.
One might have a personal construct that suggests dogs are friendly, lovable creatures.
The other, however, believes that dogs are intimidating and potentially dangerous.
Kelly’s view of people as natural scientists played a role in the development ofcognitive-behavioral therapy.
Despite having little formal education during his youth, he went on to earn a doctorate in psychology.
His work drew from Freudian influences but also incorporated aspects of cognitive psychology and humanism.
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2008;11(4):239-62. doi:10.1037/a0014108
Winter DA.Personal construct psychology.
In: Zeigler-Hill V., Shackelford T. (eds)Encyclopedia of Personality and Individual Differences.
doi:10.1007/978-3-319-28099-8_1147-1
Chiari G. Man-the-scientist(Kelly).
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