What is meant by the term 'self-righting' in human development?

The term 'self-righting' in human development refers to the inborn drive to remedy a developmental deficit. This concept suggests that individuals possess an innate ability to recover from setbacks or challenges in their growth and development. For instance, if a child encounters difficulties in certain areas—such as emotional regulation or social interaction—they often demonstrate a natural tendency to adapt and find ways to overcome these obstacles.

This self-righting mechanism is crucial as it highlights resilience and the capacity for growth that exists within individuals, illustrating how they may seek out opportunities or support to address their developmental needs. Understanding this concept is important for practitioners in human development as it emphasizes the potential for positive outcomes even in the face of adversity.