This study analyses certain contributions by Leontyev, Elkonin and Vigostky in the area of Developmental Psychology, more particularly the stages of human ontogenesis. Adopting the social-historical/historical-cultural approach initiated by Vygotsky, Leontyev and Elkonin formulated the basis for a Developmental Psychology that endeavored to surpass the naturalistic approach that prevailed in this field. According to these authors, each stage of the process of development is characterized by a leading activity from which stems the relationship between the individual and their social reality. This study also analyzes the stages of the individual development Leontyev and Elkonin observed under the social conditions of the USSR.
Developmental psychology; Leontyev; Elkonin; Leading activity