Possibilities of directed emotional development of adults

In the paper the author focuses on emotional development that is considered to be a directed and continuously improved process. Three possible directions of emotional development of adults are presented and investigated in different theoretical contexts. Each of them leads to distinct practical consequences for human life. The first one is linked to productive approach focusing on developing skills that are indispensible for successful social functioning. The two other approaches emphasize the developmental point of view. It means the aim of emotional improvement being associated with a revision of the way a human being experiences his or her own life. As a result, deep changes occur in human consciousness. Developmental approach as a part of cognitive psychology suggests the aim of emotional development is to rediscover the sense of inner unity that could clarify the direction of an individual’s actions and endeavors. Whereas developmental approach as a part of personalistic-existential psychology points to human ability to transcend the level of needs of being adapted to social expectations and to discover one’s essential values. Hence, it allows to be in control of one’s own life and further development. For that reason, the author considers the last approach to be the most valuable