All Flashcards
What is the main idea behind trait theories?
Personality is made up of stable characteristics (traits) that influence behavior.
What is Allport's main contribution to trait theory?
Categorizing traits into cardinal, central, and secondary traits.
What are Eysenck's three key dimensions of personality?
Extroversion, Neuroticism, and Psychoticism.
What is the purpose of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)?
Categorizes people into 16 personality types based on four dichotomies.
What is Cattell known for in personality theory?
Identifying 16 personality factors using factor analysis.
What are the Big Five personality traits?
Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism (OCEAN).
What is the assumption of trait theories regarding the stability of traits?
Traits are relatively stable over time and across situations.
What is the primary focus of trait theories?
Identifying and measuring consistent patterns of behavior.
What is the 'favorite world' dichotomy in MBTI?
Extroverted (E): Outgoing, energetic, sociable. Introverted (I): Gentle, quiet, caring, logical.
What is the 'information' dichotomy in MBTI?
Sensing (S): Organized, observant, focuses on concrete details. Intuition (N): Logical, conceptual, insightful, focuses on patterns and possibilities.
What is the 'decisions' dichotomy in MBTI?
Feeling (F): Sensitive, appreciative, tactful, values personal concerns. Thinking (T): Analytical, logical, values facts and objectivity.
What is the 'structure' dichotomy in MBTI?
Judging (J): Determined, concrete, prefers structure and planning. Perceiving (P): Independent, questioning, adaptable, prefers flexibility and spontaneity.
What is the effect of high neuroticism on mental health?
Increased risk of anxiety disorders and depression.
How does genetics influence personality traits?
Genetic predispositions can influence the development of certain traits, like extroversion or neuroticism.
What is the effect of high conscientiousness on academic performance?
Leads to better organization, time management, and higher grades.
How does low agreeableness affect relationships?
Can lead to conflicts and difficulties in maintaining positive relationships.
What is the impact of low openness on creativity?
May limit willingness to try new things and explore unconventional ideas.
What is the effect of high extroversion on social interactions?
Individuals are more likely to seek out social interactions and enjoy being around others.
How does childhood environment affect the expression of personality traits?
Early experiences can shape how traits are expressed, either reinforcing or suppressing certain behaviors.
What is the effect of high psychoticism on behavior?
Increased impulsivity, risk-taking, and potential for antisocial behavior.
How does high conscientiousness impact work ethic?
Leads to a strong work ethic, reliability, and a commitment to completing tasks effectively.
What is the effect of low neuroticism on stress response?
Individuals are more likely to remain calm and resilient under stressful conditions.
Define 'trait' in personality psychology.
A stable characteristic that influences behavior.
What is a cardinal trait?
A dominant trait that defines a person's entire life.
What is a central trait?
General characteristics that form the foundation of personality.
Define 'factor analysis'.
A statistical technique to identify clusters of related traits.
Define 'Extroversion'.
How outgoing and sociable you are.
Define 'Neuroticism'.
Level of emotional stability or instability.
Define 'Psychoticism'.
Level of tough-mindedness and impulsivity.
What does 'Openness' mean in the Big Five?
How open you are to new experiences.
What does 'Conscientiousness' mean in the Big Five?
How organized and careful you are.
What does 'Agreeableness' mean in the Big Five?
How well you get along with others.
What is a nomothetic approach?
Belief that the same basic set of traits can describe everyone's personality.