Personality PSYC 2618 Lecture 11

TRAIT PERSPECTIVE

TRAIT a relatively stable disposition to behave in a certain way

THE “BIG FIVE” PERSONALITY FACTORS Conscientiousness Agreeableness Neuroticism Openness Extraversion

CONSCIENTIOUSNESS High: careful, organized, disciplined Low: careless, disorganized, impulsive

AGREEABLENESS High: soft-hearted, trusting, helpful Low: ruthless, suspicious, uncooperative

NEUROTICISM High: emotionally unstable, anxious, insecure, self-pitying Low: emotionally stable, calm, secure, self-satisfied

OPENNESS High: independent, imaginative, preference for variety Low: conforming, practical, preference for routine

EXTRAVERSION High: sociable, fun-loving, affectionate Low: retiring, sober, reserved

“Any theory …that is worthy of attention must deal with the highest capacities of the healthy and strong person as well as with the defensive maneuvers of crippled spirits.” -Abraham Maslow HUMANISTIC PERSPECTIVE

HUMANISTIC PERSPECTIVE Human nature includes an innate drive toward personal growth. Humans are largely conscious and rational beings.

HUMANISTIC PERSPECTIVE Individuals have the freedom to chart their courses of action (self-determination). Self-concept is one of the most important aspects of personality.

CHARACTERISTICS OF SELF-ACTUALIZING PERSON They know & like themselves. They are loving & caring. They are open & spontaneous They are genuine & honest. They are not paralyzed by others’ opinions. They are very productive, often focusing on “their mission in life.”

ROGERS’ PERSON-CENTERED APPROACH Genuineness Acceptance (unconditional positive regard) Empathy

SOCIAL-COGNITIVE PERSPECTIVE

Internal Personal Factors Environmental Influences Behavior

Internal locus of control the perception that one can strongly influence the outcome and destiny of one’s own life External locus of control the belief that chance or outside forces beyond one’s personal control determine one’s life

EXPLORING THE SELF Self-esteem

CORRELATES OF HIGH SELF-ESTEEM Less likely to use drugs More persistent at difficult tasks Less shy Less lonely Happier (individualistic cultures)

Narcissism

Self-serving bias our readiness to perceive ourselves favorably

Culture and the self: individualism & collectivism

INDIVIDUALISM Individuals define self mostly in terms of personal traits (independent self) Personal goals more important than group goals

COLLECTIVISM Individuals define self in terms of group memberships (interdependent self) Group goals more important than personal goals Fitting in is more important than expressing one’s self Social harmony is highly valued.