WHAT IS PERSONALITY?
Personality is made up the characteristic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make a person unique. Researchers have found while some external factors can influence how certain traits are expressed, personality originates within the individual. Personality psychologists are interested in the unique characteristics of individuals, as well as similarities among groups of people.
ITS CHARACTERISTICS- * Personality is organized and consistent. * Personality is psychological, but is influenced by biological needs and processes. For example, while your personality might lead you to be shy in social situations, an emergency situation might lead you to take on a more outspoken and take-charge approach. * Personality causes behaviors to happen. You react to the people and objects in your environment based on your personality. From your personal preferences to your choice of a career, every aspect of your life is affected by your personality. * Personality is displayed through thoughts, feelings, behaviors and many other ways.
THEORIES –
Personality psychology is the focus of some of the best known psychology theories by a number of famous thinkers including Sigmund Freud. Biological approaches suggest that genetics are responsible for personality. Research on heritability suggests that there is a link between genetics and personality traits.
BEHAVIOURAL THEORIES- Behavioral theorists study observable and measurable behaviors, rejecting theories that take internal thoughts and feelings into account. This theory suggests that personality is the result of the interaction between an individual and his or her environment. Behavioral theorists include B.F. Skinner and John B. Watson.
PSYCHODYNAMIC THEORIES- Psychodynamic theories of personality are heavily influenced by the work of Sigmund Freud, and emphasize the influence of the unconscious mind and childhood experiences on personality.