THE PERSPECTIVE OF HUMAN ABILITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION

Abstract

The issue of human abilities is widely discussed in the field of psychological literature . It has been developed within specific theories as well as therapeutic practices. In the context of modern positive psychology human abilities are placed within the framework of a continuum including the understanding of them as fixed and unchangeable in time, and at the other end of the same continuum is the conviction that they can be improved and developed by making certain efforts. In the second understanding challenges and difficult situations are an integral part of the way towards the realization of the purposes and serve as a springboard for learning new things and for personal growth. The perception of the idea that competencies and skills are determined by biological laws has to do with the desire to avoid risk and failure as well as with a desire for continuous confirmation of current developments. Uncertainty is the factor responsible for choosing not to endeavour and the one which not lead to a different result. According to Carol Dweck someone’s self-acceptnce has significant impact on the choice of a way of living. It is clear that a conviction may have the power to transform an individual's perception of the world. The idea of human abilities can be viewed in the context of the development of character strengths. These are the human competencies in which the implementation of an activity is carried out with ease and leads to a feeling of satisfaction and value. The development of strengths positively correlated with wellbeing and meaning. Leading life according to personal values and goals selected corresponding to individual’s strengths have positive impact on the psychological and physical health. Due to the fact that the understanding of the abilities is formed in early childhood the emphasis in modern educational practices was placed on individual skills and traits to be identified and encouraged. An essential aspect in these two theoretical paradigms is the fact that someone’s self-acceptance as well as the development of strengths are relevant to all other areas of life, i.e. there are a transfer of these skills in areas such as professional commitment, personal life, hobbies, etc. Everyone has his/her own strengths but not everyone has differentiated them. When recognized, the path to their development should go, so that the activities of the individual correspond to the most prominent skills and competences. The set of 24 character strengths includes spheres such as spiritual life, good-heartedness, curiosity, justice. Related to Carol Dweck’s theory we may conclude that they have the powr to change some strategies used in interpersonal relationships as well as in the school environment.