Psychology of personality

personality trait

A characteristic pattern of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that remains consistent over time and situations.

surface trait

Personality characteristics that are easily observable by others.

source trait

Underlying traits that are the basic dimensions of personality.

introvert

A person who is more reserved, reflective, and focuses more on internal thoughts and feelings.

extrovert

A person who is outgoing, social, and draws energy from interactions with others.

id

In Freudian psychology, the part of the personality that consists of unconscious, psychic energy and drives.

ego

In Freudian psychology, the part of the personality that mediates between the demands of reality, the id, and superego.

superego

In Freudian psychology, the part of the personality that represents internalized ideals and provides standards for judgment.

defense mechanism

Psychological strategies that are unconsciously used to protect oneself from anxiety arising from unacceptable thoughts or feelings.

repression

A defense mechanism that involves pushing painful or unacceptable thoughts into the unconscious.

rationalization

A defense mechanism that involves creating logical explanations for behaviors or thoughts that are actually irrational.

displacement

A defense mechanism that involves redirecting emotions or impulses from their original source to a less threatening object.

regression

A defense mechanism that involves reverting to an earlier, less mature stage of development.

projection

A defense mechanism that involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others.

reaction formation

A defense mechanism that involves expressing the opposite of one's true feelings when those true feelings are socially unacceptable.

denial

A defense mechanism that involves refusing to accept the reality of a situation.

sublimation

A defense mechanism that involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities.

identification

A defense mechanism that involves adopting the characteristics of another person or group to enhance one's self-esteem.

collective unconscious

In Jungian psychology, the part of the unconscious mind that is shared by all humans and contains archetypes.

archetype

A universal symbol or pattern that is inherited and exists in the collective unconscious.

inferiority complex

A feeling of inadequacy and insecurity that stems from actual or perceived inferiority in some aspect of oneself.

socialization

The process through which individuals learn and internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of their culture.

self-concept

The perception and evaluation of oneself, which includes attitudes, beliefs, and values about oneself.

congruence

Consistency between one's self-concept and one's actual experience.

acculturation

The process of adopting the cultural traits or social patterns of another group.