What is the process called that shapes a person's reality based on their experiences?

The process that shapes a person's reality based on their experiences is known as constructivism. This theory posits that individuals actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences. Constructivism emphasizes the idea that reality is not a passive reflection of the external world but is actively created by individuals as they interact with their environments, accumulate experiences, and interpret those experiences based on their existing cognitive frameworks.

This understanding of how people shape their reality through personal experiences aligns with various therapeutic practices in marriage and family therapy, as therapists often work to help clients explore and reconstruct their perceptions to foster better mental health and relationships. By recognizing that one's view of reality is shaped through lived experiences, therapists can empower clients to adjust their perspectives and foster personal growth.