Psy/405 Introduction To Personality Paper

Introduction to Personality
Student
PSY 405
Date
Professor

Introduction to Personality
Personality Defined
Personality is difficult to describe, but nearly impossible to define in a universally acceptable way. Throughout history many definitions of personality have been proposed but none universally accepted. This is because of the reality that each individual’s definition comes with a unique spin placed upon it by that individual’s life experience, surroundings, and personal viewpoint. Personality can be described as the regular presentation of certain traits and attributes that lend cohesion and uniqueness to behavior and thought (Feist & Feist, 2009). Although there is not a single, universally accepted definition of personality,
The entire human has needs, but each portion of the human has seperate needs that must be fulfilled prior to reaching the sought after end result, self-actualization (Feist & Feist, 2009). Hunger, thirst, and safety must be fulfilled before the need for growth or self-worth. The satisfaction of the individual is paramount in humanistic theory. Maslow, May, and Rogers believed that humans are inherently good creatures that must be treated as a whole person rather than in small pieces. Behaviorism and psychodynamic theories had not allowed for this kind of thought.
Dispositional Theory
Dispositional theory focuses on traits consistently exhibited by a subject. Traits are grouped by their centrality to the personality. Cardinal dispositions make up the vast majority of one’s personality (Feist & Feist, 2009). These are rare. Central dispositions are the five to 10 traits by which one is most easily identified (Feist & Feist, 2009). Secondary dispositions are abdundant and generally make appearances only under certain circumstances.
Learning
Heredity, environmental, cultural, familial, and social factors all play a role in the development of personality (Feist & Feist, 2009). Hereditary influences can be anything from height and attractiveness to temperment. Cultural influence runs deep. One is often unaware of its effect on the personality. Behavioral standards, gender roles, and expectations can affect the development of personality (Feist & Feist, 2009). American society places very high value on individualism while some Asian cultures place higher value on acting in ways that promote the good of the masses. Americans may mistake this cultural difference for the personality trait of shyness, while an Asian child may mistake the American for selfish and