Theories of Personality

Flashcards covering key concepts, theories, and terminology related to the subject of personality in psychology.

What is Personality?

An individual’s characteristic pattern of thinking, feeling, and acting.

Psychoanalytic Perspective

A classic theory of personality focusing on internal conflicts and the unconscious mind.

Humanistic Perspective

A theory that emphasizes personal growth and the positive potential of individuals.

Trait Theory

An approach that identifies measurable traits that vary among individuals.

Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies used to cope with conflicts between the Id and Superego.

Self-actualization

The process of realizing one's full potential and pursuing personal growth.

The Big Five

A model that outlines five key dimensions of personality: Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Neuroticism, Agreeableness, and Openness.

Conscientiousness

A Big Five trait characterized by organization, carefulness, and self-discipline.

Extraversion

A Big Five trait characterized by sociability, excitement-seeking, and talkativeness.

Neuroticism

A Big Five trait associated with emotional instability and anxiety.

Biological Basis of Personality

The notion that personality traits may be influenced by physiological, biological, and neurological processes.

Twin Studies

Research comparing the traits of monozygotic and dizygotic twins to understand the genetic basis of personality.

Criticisms of Trait Theory

Concerns regarding cross-cultural variation and potential bias in self-assessment.

Person x Situation Approach

A theory suggesting that personality is not consistent and can be influenced by situational factors.

Unconditional Positive Regard

The concept introduced by Carl Rogers, suggesting that a supportive environment fosters personal growth.

Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow's theory describing a tiered system of human needs, from physiological to self-actualization.