Individual Differences can both Facilitate and Limit Individual Development

Individual differences in cognitive abilities, interests, and personality provide both opportunities and challenges for individual development. Cognitive ability is directly related to the ease, speed and efficiency of learning. Interests and personality traits are likely to be related to individuals' motivation to develop and change. These individual differences can enhance development, but they can also be a significant barrier to development. Unfortunately, individuals who are most in need of development (e.g. individuals who have low levels of cognitive ability, flat interests, dysfunctional personality traits) may be least likely to profit from developmental activities. Similarly, individuals who start out with strong abilities, healthy personalities, and well-developed interests are most likely to develop new abilities, skills, and talents, particularly if the developmental activities they have access to are consistent with their interests and personalities. A clear understanding of the characteristics of the abilities, interests and personalities of individuals is the first step towards understanding the success or failure of developmental efforts.