What does Kelly define as the awareness of a significant change in core structures?

In Kelly's Personal Construct Theory, the term that refers to the awareness of a significant change in core structures is classified as "threat." This concept is rooted in the idea that individuals have a set of constructs or frameworks through which they interpret and understand their experiences and the world around them. When there is a perceived change in these core structures—such as when new experiences challenge existing beliefs or when a person encounters uncertainty—it can create a sense of threat.

The feeling of threat arises because such changes can disrupt one's worldview, leading to a reevaluation of how one's constructs apply to the new situation. This awareness of potential upheaval in one's cognitive frameworks can lead to a sense of anxiety, but it is specifically defined as threat when a significant change is realized. Understanding this nuance is crucial as it shows how individuals process their experiences and adapt their constructs in the face of change. Therefore, the identification of threat is essential in Kelly's theory, emphasizing the dynamic nature of personal constructs and the impact of awareness on individual psychological experiences.