Invariants, Constructs, Affordances, Analogies

Abstract

Kelly's personal construct theory offers many opportunities to practitioners simply because it is eclectic. We begin with the seminal proposals about world hypotheses (Pepper, 1942) and place the concepts of invariance and affordance into a common theoretical frame. One outcome of this integration is to appreciate different views about constructs. We indicate that constructs can become more than conservators of the past; they can act as scaffolds or catalysts for future engagement. For active participation we promote the use of analogies. These are at the working edge of constructs and act as candles able to illuminate the unknown through assisting the creation of literalism