Importancia de los acontecimientos vitales como factores de cambio en el ciclo vital

Abstract

Throughout the vital cycle, individuals undergo experiences which no doubt exert an influence on their development. The present article analyzes the importance of vital events as change factors. We assume their inseparability. Adopting the classification established by Rodrigo (1985) we distinguish three classes of events, namely, normative events related to age, normative events related to historical time and non normative events which are not universally experienced by all subjects. We will analyze those factors which have relevant meaning in the development of vital events according to the ways they are perceived. Individual interpretation falls within the boundaries of two paradigms: the organicist and the mechanical model. We will try to reach a middle ground and find a dialectical balance between both extreme positions.