BASS Tcherniakov

(1892 - 1931), Soviet psychologist. Developed a method of psychological observation of preschool children. In the debate with the proponents of reflexology proved the importance and the possibility of objective experimental study of intrapsychic functions ( 'The will as a matter of functional psychology', 1923). B. introduced in the Soviet psychology of the term 'work', drawing on the Marxist explanation of the role of labor in shaping the personality and mental functions. The activities themselves, it is understood as a special structure and integrity, the primary to the image of its individual elements (conditioned reflexes). B. considered an active man 'figure in the environment', insisted on the socio-cultural and historical implications of individual behavior, believing that its content is mediated by the values of science and culture. He has made a major contribution to educational psychology ( 'The general principles of pedology', 1931).