functional autonomy

Functional autonomy, a concept developed by psychologist Gordon Allport, suggests that adult motives can become independent of their infantile origins. This idea emerged from a broader school of thought in psychology known as functionalism, which emphasized the practical applications of psychological research and the capabilities of the mind rather than just the processes of thought. Functionalism sought to understand how the mind works in real-world situations, contrasting with earlier approaches like structuralism. Allport's concept of functional autonomy highlights the unique development of adult personality, focusing on higher motives and the self as a unifying force.12