Discusses a cognitive perspective on personality, focusing on how dispositions are cognitively expressed and maintained in social interaction. Shows how individuals interpret life tasks in light of their most accessible schemas, envisaging alternative future selves, and devising cognitive strategies to guide behavior. Discusses adaptiveness of…

Even as children, some individuals cope remarkably with stressful situations. They are active and know how to seek adult support. Research suggests that their strong personalities are rooted in part in the treatment they receive as infants, but also that schools can effectively help deprived children to become well-adjusted adults. (KH)