Anticipation in uznadze’s theory of set and some findings in applied psychology

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of Dimitri Uznadze’s theory of set and its applied aspects. This theory recognizes the need to study processes which lie beyond the boundaries of consciousness from a nomothetic perspective. According to Uznadze, the subject of action is presented by an integral unconscious structure— Set, which encompasses (1) an existing need (subjective factor of the Set), and (2) the situation for its satisfaction (objective factor of the Set). The Set uses mental functions as instruments and prepares consequent behavior. A classical instrument for studying the Set is the fixed Set method, which is revealed in the experimental situation as a lack of adaptation in the subject—perceptual illusions. Jean Piaget highlighted the anticipatory nature of such illusions and named them “Uznadze’s effect”. Results of experiments confirm Uznadze’s basic proposition that the illusion in question is based on unconscious anticipation as an integral state of the personality. A number of experimental studies conducted by Georgian psychologists found that both, the revealing of the fixed Set, as well as its suppression during the change of environment correspond to disorders or disabilities in individuals. Currently the Set-based approach is used in the psychology of thinking and teaching methodology.