---
title: "Accommodation — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Accommodation is Piaget's process of changing a schema when new info doesn't fit. Learn how it pairs with assimilation and shows up on AP Psych SAQs and MCQs."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/accommodation"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Accommodation — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Accommodation is a cognitive process where individuals adjust their existing schemas or create new ones in order to incorporate new information that doesn't fit into any existing schemas.

## Related Study Guides

- [6.3 Cognitive Development in Childhood](/ap-psych-revised/unit-6/cognitive-development-childhood/study-guide/aVv1M6VBKwxRcxzwCIhj)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development: A comprehensive theory about the nature and development of human intelligence by Jean Piaget. It involves stages such as sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage etc., where accommodation plays a key role.
- [Adaptation](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/adaptation): In psychology context, adaptation refers to the ability to adjust to new information or experiences.
- Cognitive Equilibrium: A state of balance between applying past knowledge (assimilation) and changing behavior to account for new knowledge (accommodation).