In Kelly's theory, how are constructs developed?

In Kelly's Personal Construct Theory, constructs are developed primarily through personal experiences and social interactions. This understanding is rooted in the notion that individuals create mental frameworks to interpret and predict events in their lives based on the unique encounters they have with the world around them. These constructs are shaped by the subjective meanings attributed to various experiences, which include the relationships and communications with others.

As individuals navigate their environments, they are constantly engaging with different situations and people, which informs their perceptions and reactions. This process allows for the continual adaptation and modification of constructs based on new experiences. Consequently, one’s understanding of the world is not fixed; it evolves as individuals interact socially and reflect on those interactions, thereby making personal experiences the foundation for developing and refining these constructs.