Constructivist theory
Theory
The individual is at the core of this new age theory called Constructivism. This school of thought takes its ingredients from the sciences, the arts, and many other aspects of life to steer away from simply looking for one objective reality. For constructivists, concepts of truth, honesty, kindness, and many other things are subjective, and constructed by each individual based on what that person has experienced and is experiencing. All of our perceived realities are a direct result of our personal "lenses" and our experiences
-- "psychological realities are inherently private, even when they are shared collectively." -Mahoney (1988)
-- "psychological realities are inherently private, even when they are shared collectively." -Mahoney (1988)
5 Themes of constructivism:
- Active agency: this explains that people are actively participating in the structuring of their own lives. Our choices, actions, and focuses are constant influences over our experiences.
- Order: People seek order, organization, and to derive meaning from their experiences. Balance is key here, because too much order can cause emotional "overcontrol" and too little can cause loss of balance and sense of direction.
- Self and Identity: Self-image, self-concept, and self-reflection abilities are important to emotional health. If there is no congruence or the sense of self becomes broken, it can cause intrapersonal and interpersonal issues.
- Social-Symbolic processes: Identity, order, and meaning stem from people's social interactions and symbolic processes.
- Dynamic dialectical development: All people seek balance and may be resistant to change for purposes of self preservation. People are also constantly experiencing constant cycles of experience which cause organization or disorganization. Even though many of us resist disorganization, a little disorganization is necessary for reorganization.
Techniques
There are currently no specific therapeutic techniques that are associated with constructivist theory, however there are some strategies that are used more often than others. Making meaning through language is an important practice in constructivism, and it is believed to help people explore their meanings more accurately. Overall methods of constructivist therapies include integrating the mind, body, and spirit through meditation, breathing, and relaxation practices.
Source:
Seligman, L., & Reichenberg, L. (2014). Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy (4th ed., pp. 40-110). Pearson Publishing.
Seligman, L., & Reichenberg, L. (2014). Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy (4th ed., pp. 40-110). Pearson Publishing.