Person‐Environment Fit Theory: Some History, Recent Developments, and Future Directions

Abstract

In honor of John R. P. French, Jr., recipient of the 1992 Kurt Lewin Award, this article traces French's contribution to the development of person‐environment (PE)fit theory. The text examines recent extensions of PE fit theory. Extensions include the introduction of response surfaces to examine the homogeneity of effects of PE fit on indicators of mental health across all levels of P or of E and research examining the antecedents of PE fit. The Lewinian tradition of applying theory to the study of social issues is followed to suggest areas for future research.