Theories of Personality Reviewer

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on theories of personality, including definitions, important figures, and the major schools of thought in psychology.

What is the primary focus of psychology?

Psychology is the study of the mind or soul; it involves the study of behavior and mental processes.

What are the different types of behavior?

1. Overt vs Covert; 2. Conscious vs Unconscious vs Non-conscious; 3. Rational vs Irrational; 4. Voluntary vs Involuntary; 5. Simple vs Complex.

Who is considered the father of psychology?

Aristotle is often referred to as the father of psychology.

What was Aristotle's contribution to the study of the soul?

Aristotle introduced the three functions of the soul: Vegetative, Appetitive, and Rational.

What defines structuralism in psychology?

Structuralism, developed by Wilhelm Wundt, emphasizes the structure of the mind and primarily uses introspection as a method.

What does functionalism focus on?

Functionalism, founded by William James, emphasizes the function of the mind and how it aids in the adjustment of an organism to its environment.

What is behaviorism?

Behaviorism, established by John B. Watson, stresses the importance of the environment in shaping behavior and focuses on observable behavior.

What is the core belief of humanistic psychology?

Humanistic psychology emphasizes that an individual's behavior is primarily determined by their perception of the world and their inherent drive for self-actualization.

What is the purpose of psychoanalysis according to Freud?

Psychoanalysis aims to uncover repressed memories and understand the unconscious mind's influence on behavior.

What are Freud's three components of personality?

Freud's model includes the Id (pleasure principle), Ego (reality principle), and Superego (idealistic principle).

What does Adler's concept of 'striving for superiority' entail?

It is the dynamic force behind all actions, where individuals aim to overcome feelings of inferiority and reach their personal goals.

What are archetypes in Jung's theory?

Archetypes are universal symbols and themes found in the collective unconscious, such as the Persona, Shadow, Anima, and Hero.

What is the significance of stages in Erikson's psychosocial development?

Each stage marks a conflict or crisis that must be resolved for healthy personality development across the lifespan.