Personal Construct Theory

Personal Construct Theory,  was developed by George Kelly in the mid 1950's and views the individual as the scientist who has developed a set of theories or constructs, which are being continually tested, and modified accordingly to the outcomes of the test.  These theories are set out for every situation encountered.

" If I work hard I will be successful ".

" If I go too close to the stove I will get burned".

If these hypothesis are tested and proven to be correct, they allow, the individual to predict the likely outcome of an event. 

This is viewed as a construct being validated:  

If the hypothesis  turns out to be wrong.

This is viewed as a construct being invalidated.

If the hypothesis repeatedly turns out to be wrong ,and the client continues with the construct unmodified, then this could be seen as a problem.

The aim of therapy is that the therapist, and the client work together to enable the client to create in more accurate construct, which allows them to better predict the outcome of events.

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