Developmental and Dynamic Changes in the Nature of the Self-Concept

Abstract

Since the late 1970s, there has been increasing interest in the child's developing understanding of his or her self-attributes and emotions. Much of this work has been normative in nature, positing models and presenting evidence in support of such developmental change. Moreover, many have attempted to interpret the findings from a cognitive-developmental perspective, indicating how underlying structural changes are responsible for developmental shifts in self-understanding. The goal of the present chapter is to suggesf how this knowledge may aid our therapeutic efforts with children, allowing us to better understand the child and evaluate his or her potential for personal growth.