Expansion means elaborating on a child's expression by adding more words.
In psychology, expansion refers to the process of broadening or elaborating on one's thoughts, ideas, or experiences. This can occur in various contexts, such as during therapy sessions, creative writing, or problem-solving activities.
Examples of expansion in psychology include:
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Cognitive restructuring: In cognitive-behavioral therapy, expansion involves challenging negative or distorted thoughts and beliefs by exploring evidence for and against them. This process can help individuals to see situations in a more balanced and nuanced way.
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Mind mapping: In creative writing or brainstorming sessions, expansion involves generating new ideas or connections by building on existing ones in a structured way. This can help individuals to overcome mental blocks or generate new insights.
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Free association: In psychoanalytic therapy, expansion involves allowing one's thoughts to flow freely without censorship or self-judgment. This can help individuals to uncover unconscious patterns or conflicts that may be contributing to psychological distress.
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Divergent thinking: In problem-solving activities, expansion involves generating multiple solutions or perspectives to a given problem by exploring different possibilities or alternatives. This can help individuals to overcome mental rigidity and develop creative solutions.
Overall, expansion can be a valuable tool for promoting cognitive flexibility, creativity, and self-awareness in various contexts. However, it may require practice and guidance to develop effectively.