Kontinuitätstheorie

Kontinuitätstheorie, also known as Continuity Theory, is a sociological and psychological concept that examines the persistence of individual characteristics, behaviors, and social roles over time. It suggests that fundamental aspects of a person's identity and life trajectory tend to remain relatively stable unless significant disruptive events occur. This theory contrasts with more radical change-oriented perspectives, emphasizing gradual evolution and the influence of early experiences on later life.

In sociology, Kontinuitätstheorie is often applied to understanding career paths, family structures, and social integration. It posits that individuals tend to build upon existing skills, relationships, and societal positions. For example, a person's early educational choices and social networks can create a trajectory that, barring major interventions, continues to shape their future opportunities and choices. This can manifest in the concept of "path dependency," where past decisions constrain or enable future ones.

In psychology, the theory focuses on personality development and the maintenance of self-concept. It suggests that while individuals adapt to new circumstances, core personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion, often remain consistent throughout life. Early childhood experiences and the formation of attachment styles are seen as particularly influential in establishing a continuous pattern of emotional and relational behavior. While acknowledging the possibility of change, Kontinuitätstheorie highlights the inherent tendency towards stability and the resilience of established patterns in human development and social life.