Exam 1: Personality Components and Taxonomies
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Questions and Answers

What is the effect size for the difference in neuroticism between genders?

  • -0.49 (correct)
  • 0.2
  • 0.3
  • 0.5
  • Which trait is generally higher in women according to the Big 5 personality traits?

  • Openness
  • Extraversion
  • Neuroticism (correct)
  • Agreeableness (correct)
  • What do repressors typically experience compared to non-repressors?

  • Both lower conscious and physiological stress
  • Higher conscious distress
  • Lower physiological stress
  • Lower conscious distress but higher physiological stress (correct)
  • Which defense mechanism is demonstrated by individuals helping to cope with anxiety?

    <p>Projection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of the Big 5 traits relates to reproductive success according to evolutionary pressures?

    <p>Agreeableness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What trait do males prioritize when selecting mates?

    <p>Youth and physical attractiveness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects social theories regarding gender roles?

    <p>Socialization significantly influences the development of gender roles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes neuroticism differences between genders?

    <p>Women score higher, particularly in anxiety and fearfulness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one debate concerning sex differences in behavior?

    <p>Whether they are biologically innate or socially constructed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do men typically differ from women in terms of agreeableness?

    <p>Men demonstrate more assertiveness than women. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personality trait from the Five-Factor Model typically decreases with age?

    <p>Openness to Experience (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What approach to personality taxonomies relies on language to identify important traits?

    <p>Lexical Approach (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which dimension of the Five-Factor Model tends to increase as people age?

    <p>Conscientiousness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Eysenck’s Hierarchical Model, which of the following is NOT one of the supertraits?

    <p>Agreeableness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the 'A' in the OCEAN model represent?

    <p>Agreeableness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does neuroticism generally change with age?

    <p>It decreases (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following mechanisms describes how personality helps individuals interact with their environment?

    <p>Influence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the statistical approach, which method is employed to gather similar traits?

    <p>Factor analysis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a high Behavioral Activation System (BAS) influence personality traits?

    <p>It encourages impulsivity and excitement-seeking. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does norepinephrine play in personality traits?

    <p>It fosters a reliance on external approval and empathy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trait is linked to a high Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)?

    <p>Anxiety (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What adaptive problem do males primarily face in reproductive strategies?

    <p>Uncertainty in paternity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Natural selection influences personality traits by favoring traits that are:

    <p>Adaptive for survival and reproduction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do low levels of dopamine affect behavior?

    <p>They drive impulsive exploratory behavior. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following traits is NOT linked to high BAS?

    <p>Anxiety (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key characteristic of individuals with lower levels of norepinephrine?

    <p>They become more socially empathetic. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'nomothetic' refer to in personality traits?

    <p>General laws that apply to many people (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'rank order stability' pertain to regarding personality traits?

    <p>Relative standing within a group over time (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is primarily used to estimate the heritability of traits?

    <p>Twin studies (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, which need comes after safety needs?

    <p>Love and Belonging (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of molecular genetics in relation to personality?

    <p>Identifying specific genes linked to personality traits (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a component of Cloninger's Tri-Dimensional Model?

    <p>Self-actualization (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is 'validity' defined in the context of measurement?

    <p>The accuracy of what the measurement aims to assess (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What describes the genotype-environment interaction?

    <p>The interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental responses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a higher score in agreeableness imply according to personality traits?

    <p>Increased likelihood of forming trustworthy relationships (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Big 5 personality trait is characterized by women typically scoring higher in anxiety?

    <p>Neuroticism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following defense mechanisms involves denying reality to cope with anxiety?

    <p>Denial (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of repression as indicated by the research on repressors?

    <p>Lower conscious distress but higher physiological stress (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the Big 5 personality traits, how might evolutionary pressures relate?

    <p>They relate to the need for social connections and reproductive success. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In mate selection, which factor do females prioritize for ensuring offspring survival?

    <p>Resources and status (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements reflects a difference in socialization of boys and girls?

    <p>Girls are raised with expectations of nurturing behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary controversy regarding observed sex differences in behavior?

    <p>They may stem from either biological or social constructs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gender typically scores higher in neuroticism, particularly in anxiety?

    <p>Women (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic do men usually exhibit more than women in terms of agreeableness?

    <p>Assertiveness (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trait from the Five-Factor Model tends to decrease as a person ages?

    <p>Openness to Experience (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of Eysenck's Hierarchical Model of personality?

    <p>Three broad traits (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does conscientiousness typically change over a person's lifespan?

    <p>Increases with age (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach to personality taxonomy emphasizes the use of factor analysis?

    <p>Statistical Approach (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor of the OCEAN model is associated with a person's tendency to be emotionally stable or unstable?

    <p>Neuroticism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key characteristic of traits as defined within personality psychology?

    <p>Traits are consistent patterns in behavior (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following traits generally increases as individuals age?

    <p>Conscientiousness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of personality is characterized by an emphasis on social traits in the Five-Factor Model?

    <p>Extraversion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes idiographic trait conceptualizations from nomothetic ones?

    <p>They are unique to individual characteristics. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes mean level change in personality traits?

    <p>It signifies changes in average trait levels within a group over time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect does reliability in psychological measurements address?

    <p>The consistency of the measurement over time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of molecular genetics in the context of personality?

    <p>To identify specific genes associated with personality traits. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which level of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs follows Love and Belonging?

    <p>Esteem (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Cloninger's Tri-Dimensional Model, what trait is linked to low levels of serotonin?

    <p>Harm avoidance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the genotype-environment interaction emphasize in terms of personality development?

    <p>The way genetic predispositions react to various environments. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ethical concern is associated with genetics in relation to personality?

    <p>Determinism and limits on personal agency. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What personality trait is primarily influenced by a high Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)?

    <p>Anxiety (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter is associated with novelty seeking and may lead to impulsive behavior?

    <p>Dopamine (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a high Behavioral Activation System (BAS) affect an individual's behavior?

    <p>Enhanced approach behavior toward rewards (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personality traits are associated with lower levels of norepinephrine?

    <p>Sociability and empathy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of low levels of dopamine according to behavioral responses?

    <p>Greater need for novel experiences (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following traits is NOT typically linked with a strong Behavioral Activation System (BAS)?

    <p>Agreeableness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of natural selection in the context of personality traits?

    <p>Favors traits that enhance survival and reproduction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Components of Personality

    Personality is made up of traits, mechanisms, and individual differences that create lasting patterns of behavior and thought.

    Five-Factor Model (FFM)

    A widely accepted personality model that describes five broad dimensions of personality: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism (OCEAN).

    Openness to Experience (FFM)

    A personality trait related to a person's eagerness to try new things and embrace novel experiences. It decreases as people age.

    Conscientiousness (FFM)

    Reflects a person's level of organization, responsibility, motivation, and reliability. It tends to increase with age.

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    Extraversion (FFM)

    A personality trait describing sociability, assertiveness, and emotional expression. Extraversion tends to decrease slightly with age in social dominance, but positive emotion tends to be maintained.

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    Agreeableness (FFM)

    Characterized by compassion, cooperation, and focus on others' well-being. Agreeableness typically increases with age.

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    Neuroticism (FFM)

    A personality trait associated with emotional instability, anxiety, and irritability. Neuroticism gradually decreases with age.

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    Lexical Approach

    A personality theory that important traits are reflected in language.

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    Mate Selection Differences

    Females prioritize resources and status in mates, while males prioritize youth and attractiveness as signs of fertility.

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    Socialization's Role in Gender

    Socialization shapes gender roles and behaviors through differing expectations for boys and girls, influencing their personality development.

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    Biological vs. Social Influences

    Debate exists regarding whether sex differences are inherent biological traits or socially influenced, potentially mirroring stereotypes.

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    Neuroticism Difference (Sex)

    Women tend to score higher on measures of neuroticism, particularly in anxiety and fearfulness, compared to men.

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    Agreeableness Difference (Sex)

    Women are often found to be more empathetic and trusting, while men demonstrate more assertiveness.

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    Nomothetic Trait

    General personality traits applicable to many people.

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    Idiographic Trait

    Personality traits specific to an individual.

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    Rank Order Stability

    Consistency in relative position within a group over time.

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    Mean Level Change

    Changes in average trait levels within a group over time.

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    Heritability

    Percentage of trait variation due to genetics.

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    Genotype-Environment Interaction

    How genes influence reactions to different environments.

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    Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

    A five-tiered model of human needs, from basic to self-actualization.

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    Big Three Motives

    Achievement, power, and intimacy as key motivators.

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    Low Dopamine Levels

    Increased desire for novel and stimulating experiences, potentially leading to impulsivity and exploratory behavior.

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    Low Norepinephrine Levels

    Increased dependence on external rewards and approval, leading to greater sociability and empathy.

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    Behavioral Activation System (BAS)

    A system that regulates responses to rewards, leading to approach behaviors. High BAS is linked to impulsivity and reward sensitivity.

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    Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS)

    A system that regulates responses to punishment, leading to avoidance behaviors. High BIS is linked to anxiety and punishment sensitivity.

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    Personality Traits & Biological Mechanisms

    Impulsivity (high BAS) and anxiety (high BIS) are connected to neurotransmitter levels and brain arousal responses.

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    Natural Selection

    The process where traits aiding survival and reproduction become more common in a population.

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    Male Evolutionary Problems

    Uncertainty of paternity leads to strategies like mate guarding and intrasexual competition.

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    Female Evolutionary Problems

    Ensuring sufficient resources for raising offspring.

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    Sex Differences in Personality

    Most sex differences in personality are small, often with effect sizes around 0.2-0.3. However, some larger differences exist, particularly in physical traits and aggression. Notably, women score significantly higher in neuroticism (-0.49 effect size).

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    Big Five and Evolutionary Pressures

    The Big Five personality traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) are linked to evolutionary pressures, influencing social interactions and reproductive success. Higher agreeableness, for example, might indicate trustworthiness in social relationships.

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    Repression: Unconscious Defense

    Repression is a defense mechanism where individuals consciously suppress distressing thoughts or experiences. Research supports that repressors exhibit lower conscious distress but higher physiological stress in response to repressed material.

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    Unconscious Processing: Beyond Repression

    Modern research suggests that unconscious information isn't always repressed. It can influence behavior despite conscious awareness, as seen with subliminal perception.

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    Defense Mechanisms: Coping with Anxiety

    Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies used to protect oneself from anxiety or stress. Empirical studies demonstrate the roles of projection (attributing own feelings to others), denial (rejecting reality), and displacement (shifting emotions to a safer target) in coping.

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    The 'Big Three' Motives

    Three primary motivators: Achievement (striving for success), Power (wanting influence), and Intimacy (desiring close relationships).

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    Uncertainty of Paternity

    Males often face uncertainty about whether they are the biological father of their offspring. This can lead to strategies aimed at ensuring their reproductive success.

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    Evolutionary Advantages

    Personality traits can evolve because they offer advantages in survival and reproduction. For example, a strong need to belong could improve social cooperation.

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    Agreeableness & Evolutionary Pressure

    Higher agreeableness is a personality trait linked to trustworthiness in social interactions. This might have been an evolutionary advantage, promoting cooperation and social acceptance.

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    Repression: Conscious vs. Physiological

    Repressors, who consciously suppress distressing experiences, show lower conscious distress but higher physiological stress in response. This indicates a potential for internal conflict.

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    Defense Mechanisms: Coping Strategies

    Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies to cope with anxiety or stress, such as projection, denial, and displacement. These strategies are believed to help individuals manage difficult emotions.

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    What are traits?

    Consistent patterns in how people behave, think, and feel. They are stable over time.

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    What are mechanisms?

    Internal processes that guide how we act. They are like the 'why' behind our behavior.

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    What is the lexical approach?

    It suggests that important personality traits are reflected in the words we use. If a trait is important, our language will have words for it.

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    What is the Five-Factor Model (FFM)?

    A widely accepted personality model that describes 5 broad dimensions of personality: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.

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    What is the difference between the FFM and Eysenck’s model?

    FFM is broader, focusing more on social traits, while Eysenck’s model is more focused on three broad traits: Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Psychoticism.

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    What does the lexical approach tell us about personality?

    It suggests that language helps us understand personality. If a trait is important for how people behave, then there will be words in our language to describe it.

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    How does the statistical approach work?

    It uses factor analysis to group similar personality traits together. This helps us reduce a large number of traits into a smaller set of meaningful dimensions.

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    What are the key differences between the Five-Factor Model and Eysenck's model?

    The Five-Factor Model (FFM) is a broader model, with more focus on social traits. Eysenck's model is more focused on three broad traits: Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Psychoticism.

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    How does the Hierarchical Taxonomy in Eysenck’s model work?

    Eysenck organized personality traits into a hierarchy, with supertraits at the top (e.g., Extraversion) and specific habits at the bottom.

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    Study Notes

    Exam 1: Personality

    • Personality Components: Traits (consistent patterns of behaviors, thoughts, and feelings), mechanisms (internal processes guiding behavior), enduring nature (traits and mechanisms are consistent over time), individual differences (personality differentiates people), and influence (personality affects interactions with the environment).

    • Personality Taxonomies:

      • Lexical Approach: Implies that important personality traits are embedded in language.
      • Statistical Approach: Uses factor analysis to group similar traits.
      • Theoretical Approach: Pre-existing theories identify important traits.
      • Five-Factor Model (FFM) – OCEAN: Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. Eysenck's Hierarchical Model has a broader focus on social traits while also encompassing extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism.
    • FFM Changes with Age:

      • Openness to Experience: Decreases as people become more set in their ways and less open to novelty.
      • Conscientiousness: Increases with age as people become more responsible, organized, and reliable.
      • Extraversion: Decreases slightly; individuals become less socially active but maintain positive emotions.
      • Agreeableness: Increases as people become more compassionate, cooperative, and focused on relationships.
      • Neuroticism: Decreases as people develop greater emotional stability and better stress management.

    Exam 2: Personality Models and Motivation

    • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:

      • Physiological needs (food, water, shelter).
      • Safety needs (security, protection).
      • Love and belonging (social connections).
      • Esteem (self-esteem, recognition).
      • Self-actualization (personal potential).
    • Cloningers Tri-Dimensional Model: Serotonin is linked to harm avoidance, dopamine to novelty seeking, and norepinephrine to reward dependence. This model has three dimensions: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

    • BAS/BIS: Behavioral Activation System (BAS) responds to rewards, leading to approach behavior. Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) responds to punishment, leading to avoidance behavior; individuals with stronger BAS are more impulsive, seek excitement, and respond well to positive reinforcement; individuals with stronger BIS are linked to anxiety and respond well to avoiding punishment.

    • Motivation and Gender Differences:

      • The "Big Three" Motives: Achievement, Power, and Intimacy.
      • Sex/Gender Differences in Traits: Differences in expression of traits like assertiveness, warmth, empathy, and trust, with some evidence of these differences being related to stereotypes rather than immutable traits.
      • Evolutionary problems faced by males and females include uncertainty of paternity , resource acquisition, and mate competition and selection.

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    Description

    Explore the essential components of personality, including traits, mechanisms, and their enduring nature. This quiz also delves into personality taxonomies, particularly the Five-Factor Model (FFM) and how personality traits evolve with age.

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