Learning Objectives
4 objectives- Understand the foundational concepts and historical development of personality psychology.
- Analyze major theories of personality including trait, psychodynamic, humanistic, social cognitive, biological, and cultural perspectives.
- Evaluate different methods of personality assessment and their applications.
- Explore personality development across the lifespan and understand personality disorders and their treatment approaches.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 1850: Personality Psychology
1. Introduction to Personality Psychology
- Definition of Personality
- Historical Perspectives on Personality Psychology
- Major Theories Overview
- Importance and Applications of Studying Personality
2. Trait Theories of Personality
- Overview of Trait Theories
- The Big Five Personality Traits (OCEAN)
- Openness
- Conscientiousness
- Extraversion
- Agreeableness
- Neuroticism
- Characteristics and Behavioral Influences of Each Trait
- Measurement of Traits (e.g., NEO-PI-R, self-report inventories)
- Role of Traits in Social Interactions
3. Psychodynamic Theories of Personality
- Introduction to Psychodynamic Approach
- Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory
- Structure of the Mind: Id, Ego, Superego
- Psychosexual Stages of Development
- Defense Mechanisms: Repression, Denial, Projection, etc.
- The Unconscious Mind and Its Role in Personality
- Contributions and Criticisms of Psychodynamic Theory
4. Humanistic Theories of Personality
- Overview of Humanistic Psychology
- Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
- Physiological, Safety, Love/Belonging, Esteem, Self-Actualization
- Carl Rogers’ Person-Centered Theory
- Concepts of Self-Concept, Congruence, Unconditional Positive Regard
- Self-Actualization and Personal Growth
- Importance of Self-Awareness and Authenticity
5. Social Cognitive Theories of Personality
- Foundations of Social Cognitive Theory
- Bandura’s Social Learning Theory
- Observational Learning and Modeling
- Reciprocal Determinism: Interaction of Behavior, Cognition, and Environment
- Self-Efficacy: Definition and Impact
- Influence of Social Context and Cognitive Processes on Personality Development
6. Biological and Evolutionary Approaches to Personality
- Genetic Influences on Personality Traits
- Role of Brain Structures and Neurotransmitters
- Evolutionary Psychology Perspectives
- Adaptation and Survival Value of Personality Traits
- Biological Basis for Individual Differences
7. Cultural Influences on Personality
- Definition and Role of Culture in Personality
- Cultural Norms, Values, and Beliefs
- Cultural Impact on Self-Concept and Identity
- Cross-Cultural Differences in Personality Expression
- Acculturation and Personality Change
8. Personality Assessment
- Overview of Personality Assessment Methods
- Self-Report Inventories
- Examples and Uses
- Strengths and Limitations
- Projective Tests
- Rorschach Inkblot Test, Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
- Strengths and Limitations
- Behavioral Observations and Other Techniques
- Ethical Considerations in Assessment
9. Personality Development Across the Lifespan
- Personality Stability and Change Over Time
- Developmental Stages Affecting Personality
- Impact of Life Experiences and Environmental Factors
- Longitudinal Studies on Personality
- Theories Explaining Personality Change
10. Personality Disorders
- Definition and Classification of Personality Disorders
- Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5 Overview)
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Symptoms and Characteristics
- Treatment Approaches
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder
- Symptoms and Characteristics
- Treatment Approaches
- Antisocial Personality Disorder
- Symptoms and Characteristics
- Treatment Approaches
- Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment
Unlock the full outline
Get the complete content outline, learning outcomes and assessment methods for Personality Psychology.
KSh 20 one-off, or included with a plan
Learning Outcomes
Unlock the outline above to see learning outcomes.
Assessment Methods
Unlock the outline above to see assessment methods.