Human Development From An Existential Phenomenological Perspective: Some Thoughts And Considerations

Abstract

This paper outlines how an existential model of human development throughout the life span differs from a stage model. It goes on to describe some of the key features of an existential model of human development. Based on this some suggestions are made about implications for therapeutic practice. Key words Existential birth, existential maturity, stage theory, thrownness, openness, paradox, moments, de-centreing, fundamental project. In this short talk I am going to review current theories of human development, outline a few issues to do with thinking existentially and phenomenologically about human development then talk about some implications for existential practice.