skill theory

the proposition that cognitive development is the result of a dynamic interaction between the individual and the environment. According to this theory, a skill (or dynamic skill) is the capacity to act in an organized way in a specific context, and in order for a skill to be developed to its optimal level, it must be exercised in the most supportive of environments. Also called dynamic skill theory. [proposed by U.S. psychologist Kurt W. Fischer (1943– )]

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Psychology term of the day

January 29th 2025

life instinct

in psychoanalytic theory, the drive comprising the self-preservation instinct, which is aimed at individual survival, and the sexual instinct, which is aimed at the survival of the species. In the dual instinct theory of Sigmund Freud, the life instinct, or Eros, stands opposed to the death instinct, or Thanatos. Also called erotic instinct.