AP PSYCH - PERSONALITY THEORISTS

Sigmund Freud – Psychoanalytic Theory

Personality is shaped by unconscious desires, childhood experiences, and conflicts between the id (instincts), ego (reality), and superego (morality).

Alfred Adler – Individual Psychology

Personality is driven by overcoming inferiority and striving for superiority through personal growth and social connections.

Carl Rogers – Humanistic Theory

Self-concept shapes personality, and unconditional positive regard (being loved for who you are) is key to growth.

Henry Murray – Needs-Based Theory

Personality is influenced by individual needs (achievement, power, affiliation) and how they are fulfilled.

Hans Eysenck – Trait Theory (PEN Model)

Personality is based on three biological traits: Psychoticism (impulsiveness, aggression), Extraversion (social, outgoing), Neuroticism (emotionally unstable).

Karen Horney – Social & Cultural Influence on Personality

Personality develops from relationships and anxiety coping strategies: Moving toward (seeking approval), Moving against (being aggressive), Moving away (withdrawing).

Albert Bandura – Social-Cognitive Theory

Personality is shaped by observing others, personal beliefs (self-efficacy), and environment (reciprocal determinism).