Fundamentals of personality final

Genetics Approach

An approach that examines the genetic factors contributing to personality traits and behaviors. It considers how heredity influences psychological characteristics, often evaluated through twin studies and family dynamics.

Self-Actualization

The realization or fulfillment of one's talents and potential, often considered a primary need in Maslow's hierarchy. This process involves personal growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of meaningful goals that align with one's values.

Reinforcement Theory

B.F. Skinner's concept that behavior is shaped by the consequences that follow it, including reinforcement and punishment. This theory explains how learning occurs through rewards and penalties, influencing future behavior.

Attachment Theory

John Bowlby's framework describing the bonds formed between individuals and the styles of attachment. It explores how early relationships with caregivers shape emotional and relational patterns throughout life.

Ego-Dystonic

Describes thoughts and behaviors that are in conflict with a person's ideal self-image. This conflict can lead to distress, often seen in certain mental health conditions where individuals struggle with their identity.

Self-Psychology

Heinz Kohut's theory focused on the development of the self and the importance of self-objects. This theory examines how relationships and important figures in one's life help shape self-cohesion and identity.

Intersectionality

A framework for understanding how multiple social identities (such as race, class, gender) intersect, affecting experiences of privilege and oppression. This approach highlights the complexity of social dynamics and the need for nuanced perspectives in social justice.

Locus of Control

The degree to which individuals believe that they have control over the outcomes of events in their lives. A strong internal locus of control may indicate a belief that one can influence their circumstances, while an external locus suggests reliance on outside forces.

Sensation-Seeking

A personality trait characterized by the search for experiences and feelings that are novel or intense. Sensation-seekers are often drawn to thrilling activities and can display risk-taking behaviors to fulfill their desire for stimulation.

Gordon Allport

A psychologist known for his trait theory, emphasizing the significance of personal dispositions and the functional autonomy of traits in motivating behavior.

Raymond Cattell

A psychologist who developed a trait-based personality theory, identifying primary and secondary traits for a more nuanced understanding of personality.

Hans Eysenck

A psychologist known for proposing three primary dimensions of personality: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism, which categorize different traits.

Abraham Maslow

A psychologist who developed the Needs-Hierarchy Theory, positing that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy, culminating in self-actualization.

The Behavioral Approach

A psychological approach that focuses on the study of observable behavior, rejecting introspection. It emphasizes the role of environmental factors in shaping behavior.

Humanistic Approach

A psychological perspective that emphasizes the study of the whole person, focusing on personal growth, self-actualization, and the inherent goodness of humanity.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A theory proposed by Abraham Maslow, outlining a five-tier model of human needs, with self-actualization at the top, where basic needs must be met before higher-level needs can be pursued.

Cognitive Approach

A psychological perspective that emphasizes internal mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving, focusing on how these cognitive functions influence behavior.