Ecological Theory: Understanding How We Interact with Our Environment

Ecological theory, developed by James J. Gibson in the 1960s, explores how our motor systems allow us to interact more effectively with our surroundings to develop goal-oriented behavior. Gibson focused on how we detect information in our setting that is relevant to our actions, and how we then use this information to determine our movements. The individual actively explores his or her environment, and the environment promotes the performance of activities that are environmentally appropriate.