Changes in integrative complexity accompanying significant life events : historical evidence

Integrative complexity is a state cognitive style variable characterized by differentiation (the recognition of different dimensions within, or perspectives on, a given stimulus) and integration (the recognition of trade-offs, syntheses, and higher order concepts relating the differentiated units). In the current study, a positive (e.g., professional achievement or marriage) and a negative (e.g., loss of employment or death of close relative) significant life event were identified in the biographies of 30 famous people. Random samples of correspondence from periods 1-2 years before, during, and 1-2 years after each selected event were scored for integrative complexity

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