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evolution of intelligence

the process by which intelligence has developed from earlier and generally simpler species to later and generally more complex species. There are many theories of how intelligence has evolved, but most emphasize some kind of Darwinian natural-selection process, in which evolution favored skills that were more useful over the eons for adaptation to environments than skills that were less useful.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

ecosystemic approach

ecosystemic approach

an approach to therapy that emphasizes the interaction between the individual or family and larger social contexts, such as schools, workplaces, and social agencies. The approach emphasizes interrelatedness and interdependency and derives from diverse fields, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. Family therapy in particular, has made use of this approach in designing interventions for complex families and systems. See also ecological systems theory. [developed in psychology by Urie Bronfenbrenner]