Sequential development of cognitive complexity

It has been demonstrated by Bieri and others that cognitive complexity is a meaningful personality construct for adults and older adolescents. The present study investigated by use of the Adapted Modified Role Repertory Test and the Modified Role Repertory Test possible developmental change in a child's system of role constructs, i.e., a child's ability to construe social behavior in a multi-dimensional way. Subjects were 90 third, 99 fifth, 90 seventh, and 89 ninth grade children, and 83 adults. Data suggest that with time a child's system of constructs becomes more differentiated. Therefore, development is accompanied by greater cognitive complexity.