Intro to Personality and Social Psychology
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Questions and Answers

What characterizes the diathesis-stress model in relation to psychopathology?

  • It ignores the impact of early life experiences on personality development.
  • It emphasizes the influence of environmental stressors in genetic predisposition. (correct)
  • It states that all individuals exposed to stress will develop psychological issues.
  • It suggests that behavior is solely determined by genetic factors.

    • What is the role of empirical criticism in personality research?

  • To analyze the internal consistency of theories through logical reasoning.
  • To focus exclusively on theoretical principles without real-world application.
  • To rely solely on personal beliefs rather than observable data.
  • To validate theories through observation and empirical evidence. (correct)

    • What is a significant limitation of self-report questionnaires in personality assessment?

  • They may include elements of deception and lack of self-awareness from respondents. (correct)
  • They are completely free from any biases or deception.
  • They provide deep qualitative insights into the subject's personality.
  • They require extensive time and effort to complete, making them inefficient.

    • What is a key feature of projective tests in personality assessment?

    <p>They rely on ambiguous stimuli to elicit personal interpretations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a notable outcome of the case study of Phineas Gage?

    <p>His personality underwent dramatic changes following damage to the frontal lobe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary hypothesis of the within-subjects experiment regarding the importance of the research topic?

    <p>The importance of the research topic increases the chance it will be published.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the described research design, how was the independent variable operationalized?

    <p>By the importance of the topics discussed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key focus area of social psychology?

    <p>Reactions to situational influences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did participants rate in the study's data collection phase?

    <p>The publishability of each study description.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements reflects a common misconception in interpersonal attraction?

    <p>Opposites attract each other in relationships.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the counterbalancing method used in the experiment?

    <p>The order of treatment and control topics was randomized.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of personality psychology is emphasized in the definition provided?

    <p>Individual differences in behavior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which methodological flaw was noted as a risk for published studies on important topics?

    <p>Correlation-causality misunderstandings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the dependent variable in the within-subjects experiment?

    <p>Publishability rating on a 9-point scale.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the Rigdon dictator game, what percentage of participants kept all the money when the dots were implied to be observing?

    <p>25%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the two categories of topics used in this experiment?

    <p>Important and unimportant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical theory regarding happiness as discussed in the content?

    <p>People return to their set point of happiness after a temporary boost.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What conclusion did the researchers reach regarding the effect of topic importance on publication?

    <p>It increases the likelihood of publication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which methodological approach is commonly incorporated in research within personality and social psychology?

    <p>Combining situational manipulations with individual difference measures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor can activate concern about observation in social situations, according to the Rigdon dictator game findings?

    <p>Imagery of observing figures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of measures do researchers use to assess social dynamics in individuals?

    <p>Rejection sensitivity and social ostracism measurements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What neurological dysfunction is associated with psychopathy, according to research findings?

    <p>Amygdala dysfunction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining characteristic of emotional responsiveness in individuals with psychopathy?

    <p>Reduced responsiveness to threat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about psychopaths' reactions to aversive stimuli is true?

    <p>They exhibit no significant arousal to aversive primes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of aggression do psychopaths predominantly use?

    <p>Instrumental aggression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is considered stronger in the development of psychopathy?

    <p>Biological factors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an 'addictive personality' characterized by?

    <p>A predisposition to develop multiple dependencies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the key finding of Gendreu & Gendreu's research in 1970 regarding addicts and non-addicts?

    <p>No personality difference was found between addicts and non-addicts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personality trait has been correlated with nicotine use and alcohol consumption according to Malouff et al. (2006)?

    <p>Low agreeableness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common factors did Zilberman et al. (2018) find across various addictions?

    <p>High neuroticism and impulsivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT an issue with the concept of an addictive personality?

    <p>Providing hope and clear pathways for recovery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Dash et al. (2019) find regarding personality traits in relation to addiction?

    <p>Low extraversion is significant in nicotine and cannabis use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personality trait was notably low in individuals exhibiting drug use and compulsive sexual behavior according to Zilberman et al. (2018)?

    <p>Conscientiousness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What implication does high co-morbidity in substance use disorders suggest?

    <p>Simultaneous presence of multiple disorders is common</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the studies suggest about personality and its ability to predict addiction outcomes?

    <p>Specific traits correlate with certain addictions but not universally</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is predicted to have a negative relationship with regional disease prevalence?

    <p>Casual sexual partnerships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which methodological approach was used to gather data on regional disease prevalence?

    <p>Old medical atlas data</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the primary personality dimensions examined in cross-cultural studies?

    <p>Big 5 personality factors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is suggested about personality styles in regions with high infectious disease prevalence?

    <p>They minimize sexual relationships</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of the socio-sexual orientation (SOI) is measured in relation to personality?

    <p>Desire for casual partners</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome for the majority of psychopaths who received weekly CBT for up to 19 months?

    <p>The majority showed no change in aggression.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which trait is characterized by a lack of empathy and impulsive behavior?

    <p>Psychopathy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes Machiavellianism?

    <p>Characterized by manipulation to achieve personal goals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common outcome for non-psychopathic individuals during CBT treatment?

    <p>No change in aggression levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component is NOT part of the dark triad personality constellation?

    <p>Altruism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of narcissism is characterized by hypersensitivity and vulnerability?

    <p>Covert narcissism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant finding in Hecht et al. (2018) regarding the treatment of psychopathy?

    <p>Successful treatment has not been demonstrated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic behavior of individuals with narcissistic traits?

    <p>Seeking excessive admiration and validation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main hypothesis regarding container size and popcorn consumption?

    <p>Larger container size will increase intake of both fresh and stale popcorn.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor was NOT considered an independent variable in the described experiment?

    <p>Quality rating of the popcorn</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How was the actual consumption of popcorn measured in the experiment?

    <p>By weighing the containers after the movie.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key implication of the conclusion that larger containers increase consumption?

    <p>Children will prefer larger containers even for healthy snacks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of experimental designs, what does a factorial design typically involve?

    <p>Two or more categorical independent variables.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does random assignment of participants in an experiment help to control?

    <p>Potential biases in treatment and control group comparisons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which design type allows researchers to determine causality effectively?

    <p>Experimental designs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary research question regarding magical thinking and stress?

    <p>Is there a relationship between magical thinking and stress?</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes a quasi-experimental design?

    <p>It lacks random assignment and uses pre-existing groups.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the analysis of the data from the popcorn experiment suggest?

    <p>Container size significantly influences consumption levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which study indicated that satisfaction of psychological needs leads to better life experiences?

    <p>Diener et al. (2010)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between autonomy and subjective well-being according to Yu et al. (2018)?

    <p>Moderate correlation in both Eastern and Western cultures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What outcomes were predicted by intrinsic motivation based on various studies?

    <p>Quality of performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personality traits were noted as significant predictors of subjective well-being according to DeNeve & Cooper (1998)?

    <p>Extraversion, Neuroticism, Agreeableness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did providing choices have on children's vegetable intake according to Dominguez et al. (2013)?

    <p>Increased vegetable intake</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does intrinsic motivation primarily predict in educational and organizational contexts?

    <p>Quality of performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately reflects findings related to autonomy and well-being?

    <p>No significant cultural differences in correlation strength</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which study involved pretesting with children to ascertain their vegetable preferences?

    <p>Dominguez et al. (2013)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significant finding regarding antisocial behavior in relation to personality traits according to Miller & Lynam's meta-analysis?

    <p>Anti-social behavior is associated with low levels of hostility and poor impulse control.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which childhood factor was identified as a strong predictor of later criminal behavior by Murray et al. (2010)?

    <p>Maternal smoking during pregnancy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the comparison study by Voller & Long (2010), what characteristic was found to be lower in rape perpetrators compared to both sexual-assault perpetrators and non-perpetrators?

    <p>Agreeableness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a defining feature of anti-social personality disorder (ASPD) according to the DSM-5?

    <p>Pervasive pattern of disregard for the rights of others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly summarizes the findings of Push & Holtfreter (2021) regarding white-collar crime?

    <p>Psychopathy and narcissism correlate positively with white-collar crime.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the findings on the dark personality traits, which trait is prominently connected to psychopathy?

    <p>Callousness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major factor did Caspi et al. (1994) identify as contributing to increased delinquency?

    <p>Poor impulse control and negative emotionality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In examining personality traits and sexual assault, what did the findings reveal about perpetrators?

    <p>Narcissism and psychopathy distinguished perpetrators from non-perpetrators.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which emotional trait tends to be absent in individuals diagnosed with primary psychopathy according to the content?

    <p>Guilt</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R)?

    <p>Evaluation of interpersonal and affective functioning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of anti-social personality disorder's prevalence is highlighted in the general population versus prison samples?

    <p>ASPD is more common among males than females, especially in prison.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which consequence is commonly associated with individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder?

    <p>Early onset of conduct disorder.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the research discussed, which of the following traits correlates with a lower level of emotional intelligence in individuals with psychopathy?

    <p>Psychopathic traits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way should psychopathy be viewed in relation to antisocial personality disorder?

    <p>Psychopathy is a subset of antisocial personality disorder.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Diathesis-Stress Model

    • This psychological model elucidates how the interplay between predisposing factors, known as diathesis, and stressors from life events contribute to the emergence of various psychological disorders. Diathesis encompasses biological, genetic, or personality traits that increase vulnerability to mental health issues, whereas the stress component comprises environmental or experiential factors that trigger these underlying susceptibilities. The model emphasizes that psychopathology does not arise solely from one domain but rather results from a nuanced interaction between an individual's characteristics and life circumstances.

    Empirical Criticism in Personality Research

    • This aspect of research methodology is fundamental in establishing rigor in studies related to personality traits and behaviors. By scrutinizing various theories and the empirical evidence backing them, researchers can identify gaps, biases, or inconsistencies in findings. This critical examination fosters an environment of continuous improvement and validation within personality research, ensuring that conclusions drawn from studies are not only accurate but also generalizable across different populations and contexts.

    Limitations of Self-Report Questionnaires

    • Self-report questionnaires, despite being a common tool in psychological assessment, are inherently limited by the subjective nature of the responses they elicit. Participants may have varying levels of self-awareness, and their answers can be skewed by personal biases, memory recall issues, or social desirability bias, where individuals respond in a manner they believe is favorable to others. These factors can compromise the validity and reliability of the data collected, leading to potential misinterpretations of personality traits or psychological states.

    Projective Tests in Personality Assessment

    • Projective tests utilize ambiguous stimuli, such as inkblots or ambiguous pictures, to elicit responses from individuals that reveal deeper, often unconscious, aspects of their personality. By encouraging participants to interpret these stimuli in their own way, clinicians can gain insights into their thought processes, emotional conflicts, and personality structure, which might not be accessible through direct questioning. These tests operate on the principle that individuals will project their internal experiences onto external stimuli, thereby illuminating facets of their psyche that are otherwise hidden.

    Phineas Gage Case Study

    • The remarkable case of Phineas Gage, who survived a severe brain injury from a railroad accident, serves as a seminal study in psychology and neuroscience. Gage's injury resulted in significant changes to his personality and behavior, particularly in social conduct and decision-making processes. This case provided pivotal evidence for the role of the prefrontal cortex in governing personality traits and complex social behaviors, illustrating how physical alterations in brain structure can yield profound shifts in an individual’s emotional and social functioning.

    Within-Subjects Experiment Hypothesis

    • The hypothesis regarding within-subjects experiments highlights the significance of the research topic's relevance to the likelihood of publication. It posits that studies addressing highly important or timely research questions are more often accepted and published in peer-reviewed journals than those perceived as less critical. The rationale behind this phenomenon relates to the academic interest and visibility these key topics attract, influencing researchers' motivation and engagement with the study.

    Operationalization of the Independent Variable

    • In the context of experimental research, operationalization refers to the process of defining and measuring the independent variable—in this case, the importance of the research topic. By carefully constructing scenarios that challenge participants to evaluate and assign significance to different research questions, researchers can manipulate perceptions of importance, thereby assessing how these perceptions influence outcomes such as engagement and willingness to participate in the study.

    Social Psychology Focus

    • Social psychology is dedicated to understanding the myriad ways in which individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are shaped and influenced by social contexts and interpersonal relationships. It explores phenomena like conformity, group dynamics, and social perception, examining how our identities and social roles evolve in response to our interactions with others. This area of psychology employs various methodologies to investigate these influences, seeking to uncover the subtleties of human behavior in social settings.

    Participant Rating

    • In experimental scenarios, participant ratings refer to the process through which individuals assess the importance of the research questions being studied in each given scenario. Their responses can provide critical data on subjective importance, allowing researchers to analyze how perceived significance affects participant engagement and decision-making processes throughout the course of the study, potentially leading to insights into broader issues of motivation and interest in research topics.

    Counterbalancing Method

    • The counterbalancing method is a design technique utilized in experimental research to mitigate the influence of external variables, particularly those relating to the sequence in which participants are exposed to different conditions. By presenting scenarios in varying orders among participants, this method aims to control for practice effects, fatigue, or other order-related biases, thereby enhancing the validity of the findings. Such careful manipulation ensures that the results can be more confidently attributed to the independent variable rather than extraneous influences.

    Misconception in Interpersonal Attraction

    • A prevalent misconception in the psychology of attraction is the belief that individuals are invariably drawn to those who share physical similarities. While studies indicate that similarity can enhance attraction, preferences also include other factors such as personality traits, shared interests, and emotional compatibility. These dynamics reveal a more complex picture of attraction, suggesting that while physical similarity can play a role, it is not the sole determinant of interpersonal attraction.

    Emphasis in Personality Psychology Definition

    • The definition of personality psychology emphasizes the exploration of the distinct and enduring patterns that define an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors across various situations. Understanding personality extends beyond mere traits; it involves recognizing how these patterns interact with the environment and evolve over time. The study of personality serves to illuminate individual differences and predict behavior, providing insights into how these traits influence interpersonal dynamics and personal choices.

    Methodological Flaw in Published Studies

    • Publication bias represents a significant methodological flaw affecting the integrity of psychological research. This bias manifests when researchers or journals disproportionately favor the publication of studies that yield statistically significant results, often neglecting those that produce non-significant or null findings. This selective publication can skew the scientific literature, create misconceptions about the efficacy of interventions, and misrepresent the prevalence or importance of particular psychological phenomena.

    Dependent Variable in the Within-Subjects Experiment

    • In the context of the within-subjects experiment, the dependent variable refers to the participants’ choices regarding whether to continue or discontinue their involvement in the study, contingent upon the particular scenario presented to them. This measurement serves as a responsive indicator of participants’ attitudes or motivations, reflecting how they perceive the significance and relevance of the research at hand, providing valuable insights for understanding participant engagement.

    Rigdon Dictator Game Outcome

    • The outcomes of the Rigdon dictator game underscore the influence of perceived social norms on individual decision-making processes. When participants believed they were under observation, as suggested by the presence of dots or implied witnesses, they displayed a higher tendency to retain all financial resources. This behavior highlights the powerful effect of social surveillance, demonstrating how individuals are motivated to conform to expectations when they feel their actions are being scrutinized, despite the absence of formal rules governing the game.

    Categories of Topics

    • The categorization of research topics into 'important' and 'not important' serves to guide the focus of academic inquiry and publication. Researchers often prioritize areas deemed significant or timely in the scope of their field, as these topics attract funding, attention, and interest from both the scientific community and the public. Such categorizations can affect the trajectory of research and influence the availability of literature in particular domains, shaping the landscape of psychological research over time.

    Critical Theory About Happiness

    • The hedonic treadmill theory posits that individuals have a natural tendency to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness regardless of positive or negative life changes. This phenomenon suggests that increases or decreases in life circumstances, such as wealth or personal achievements, have limited long-term effects on overall happiness. Consequently, individuals may become desensitized to these changes and thus continuously seek new sources of happiness, further complicating the pursuit of enduring fulfillment.

    Effect of Topic Importance on Publication

    • The perceived significance of a research topic plays a crucial role in influencing researchers' decisions to either advance or withdraw their studies within the academic community. High perceived importance can lead to a greater commitment to methodological rigor and a desire to disseminate findings, particularly through publications that receive peer review. Conversely, if researchers feel that their topic lacks importance, they may choose to abandon their studies, thus reflecting a profound connection between topic relevance and the trajectory of academic research.

    Methodological Approach in Personality and Social Psychology

    • The use of the experimental method is prevalent in personality and social psychology due to its effectiveness in establishing causal relationships between variables. This approach allows researchers to manipulate independent variables while controlling for extraneous factors, facilitating a more precise analysis of how specific factors influence behavior and attitudes. By implementing experimental designs, researchers can draw more definitive conclusions regarding the nature of human psychology and the mechanics of social interaction.

    Factor Activating Concern About Observation

    • The implication of observation within experimental settings, as demonstrated in the Rigdon dictator games, activates participants' concerns regarding social norms and societal expectations. This heightened awareness encourages individuals to adjust their responses in line with perceived social pressures, ultimately influencing their behavioral choices. The phenomenon elucidates how individuals are responsive to social cues and the potential for external factors to influence decision-making in both experimental and real-life contexts.

    Measures of Social Dynamics

    • In studying social dynamics, researchers deploy a diverse array of measurement techniques to capture the complexity of human interaction and behavior. These measures may involve self-report questionnaires that reflect subjective experiences, direct behavioral observations that document interactions in real time, and physiological assessments that provide biological insights into emotional and psychological responses. By integrating these diverse approaches, researchers aim to create a comprehensive understanding of how social dynamics operate.

    Neurological Dysfunction Associated with Psychopathy

    • Research indicates that individuals diagnosed with psychopathy often exhibit reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, a critical area of the brain linked to emotional regulation, impulse control, and moral reasoning. This neurological dysfunction may contribute to the characteristic behavioral patterns associated with psychopathy, including a lack of empathy, increased impulsivity, and antisocial tendencies. Understanding these neurological underpinnings can inform both assessment and treatment strategies for those exhibiting psychopathic traits.

    Defining Characteristic of Psychopaths' Emotional Responsiveness

    • Psychopaths are frequently defined by their distinct emotional responsiveness, which is characterized by a striking lack of empathy, remorse, and guilt. This emotional detachment allows them to engage with others in a calculated manner, often without regard for the feelings or wellbeing of those around them. Their emotional landscape is generally shallow, leading to relationships that are often superficial and manipulative, and contributing to the difficulty others experience when attempting to understand their motives and actions.

    Psychopaths' Aversive Stimuli Reaction

    • Individuals with psychopathic traits typically exhibit diminished emotional and physiological responses to aversive stimuli that would usually elicit fear or distress in others. This muted reaction can manifest as a reduced heart rate, lower levels of cortisol, and an overall lack of anxiety in situations that are generally perceived as threatening or uncomfortable. Such reactions contribute to their ability to engage in risky or harmful behavior without the normal emotional checks that govern most people's responses to distressing situations.

    Type of Psychopath Aggression

    • Psychopaths are often found to engage in instrumental aggression, which is characterized as being goal-directed and calculated rather than impulsive or reactive. This form of aggression is employed as a means to achieve specific objectives, such as financial gain or social status, illustrating a methodical approach to harmful behavior. This calculated nature can make psychopathic individuals particularly dangerous, as their actions are premeditated, designed to maximize personal gain without regard for the impact on others.

    Stronger Factor in Psychopathy Development

    • Contemporary research suggests that genetic factors may exert a stronger influence than environmental ones in the development of psychopathy. This indicates that certain individuals may be biologically predisposed to develop psychopathic traits, suggesting a heritable component to the disorder. While environmental influences certainly play a role in shaping behavior, the relative strength of genetic predisposition emphasizes the complexity of psychopathy and the importance of incorporating biological considerations into understanding and addressing the disorder.

    'Addictive Personality' Characteristics

    • The concept of an 'addictive personality' is characterized by a set of traits that may increase an individual's susceptibility to substance use and addictive behaviors. This constellation of characteristics often includes impulsivity, a longing for novel experiences, sensation-seeking tendencies, and low self-esteem. Recognizing these traits can help identify individuals who may be at heightened risk for addiction, informing prevention and treatment strategies aimed at mitigating these vulnerabilities.

    Gendreu & Gendreu's Research Key Finding

    • Gendreu and Gendreu's research revealed that there were no statistically significant differences in personality traits between addicts and non-addicts. This surprising finding challenges common assumptions about the distinctiveness of personality profiles among those with substance use disorders and suggests that other variables, perhaps contextual or situational, might play a crucial role in the development of addiction, independent of personality traits.

    Personality Trait Correlated with Nicotine and Alcohol Consumption

    • Neuroticism, a personality trait marked by a proclivity towards negative emotional states such as anxiety, sadness, and worry, has been associated with higher levels of nicotine and alcohol use. Individuals exhibiting neurotic tendencies may engage in substance use as a maladaptive coping mechanism to mitigate their emotional distress, leading to a cyclical pattern of reliance on substances as a means of managing negative emotions and subsequent addiction.

    Common Factors Across Addictions

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) highlighted impulsivity, reward sensitivity, and sensation-seeking as shared characteristics prevalent across various forms of addiction. These common traits suggest that individuals may possess underlying personality factors that predispose them to multiple addictive behaviors, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to addiction treatment that addresses these overarching characteristics rather than targeting individual addictions in isolation.

    Issue with 'Addictive Personality' Concept

    • The notion of an 'addictive personality' is often criticized for its oversimplification of a complex issue. Addiction is a multifaceted phenomenon affected by a myriad of factors, including genetic predispositions, environmental contexts, psychological conditions, and social influences. By labeling individuals with specific personality traits as predisposed to addiction, this concept may inadvertently neglect the intricate interplay of these various factors, potentially leading to stigmatization and a misunderstanding of the nature of addiction.

    Dash et al. (2019) Findings

    • Dash et al. (2019) found that while personality traits can indeed predict some addiction outcomes, the relationship between personality and addiction is complex and influenced by various mediating factors, including the type of addiction and situational contexts. This finding underscores the necessity for a nuanced understanding of how individual traits interact with external variables to shape addiction behaviors, leading to more tailored and effective treatment approaches.

    Personality Trait Low in Individuals with Drug Use and Compulsive Sexual Behavior

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) conducted research indicating that individuals engaged in drug use and compulsive sexual behavior tend to demonstrate notably lower levels of conscientiousness. This personality trait, often linked to self-discipline and responsibility, appears to be inversely related to the likelihood of engaging in these behaviors, suggesting that those with low conscientiousness may struggle with impulse control and decision-making, leading to a higher risk for addiction and compulsive behavior.

    Implication of High Co-morbidity in Substance Use Disorders

    • The high co-morbidity seen in substance use disorders implies a significant relationship between various forms of addiction, suggesting that the presence of one addiction can increase the likelihood of developing additional addictions. This relationship indicates possible shared vulnerabilities, whether genetic, psychological, or social, calling for an integrated approach to treatment that addresses multiple addictions concurrently, rather than treating them in isolation.

    Relationship Between Personality and Addiction Outcomes

    • Research indicates that certain personality traits can influence the trajectory of addiction development and recovery, hinting at a complex interplay rather than a straightforward cause-and-effect relationship. While personality traits may provide insight into vulnerabilities toward addiction, they do not function as absolute determinants; rather, they interact with other critical factors, including environmental influences, social support, and individual experiences, contributing to the multifaceted nature of substance use disorders.

    • publication bias, which refers to the tendency of journals to publish only statistically significant findings while overlooking non-significant results. This bias creates a distorted view of the research landscape, potentially overstating the efficacy of interventions or the relationships between variables, thereby limiting the understanding of complex psychological phenomena.

    Dependent Variable in the Within-Subjects Experiment

    • The dependent variable in the within-subjects experiment was the participants' decision to continue or discontinue their involvement in the study, contingent upon the scenarios presented to them. This variable serves as an indicator of how variations in scenario framing or perceived topic relevance influence participants' behavior and engagement levels within the experimental context, providing insights into decision-making processes.

    Rigdon Dictator Game Outcome

    • The outcomes of the Rigdon dictator game revealed that when dots were implied to be observing, participants were significantly more likely to keep all the money they were offered. This behavior underscores the impact of social influence on decision-making, suggesting that individuals may alter their actions when they believe they are being watched, as well as the potential for social norms to encourage or discourage selfish or altruistic behavior in economic exchanges.

    Categories of Topics

    • Within research funding and publishing, topics are often categorized as either important or not important for publication. This categorization influences the direction of research funding, publication opportunities, and the dissemination of knowledge within the scientific community. Awareness of these categories can help address biases and drive a more comprehensive exploration of diverse topics in psychology.

    Critical Theory About Happiness

    • The hedonic treadmill theory suggests that individuals tend to adapt to happiness over time, returning to a baseline level of happiness regardless of external circumstances, such as achievements or changes in life situation. This concept raises important questions about the sustainability of happiness derived from material possessions or transient experiences and emphasizes the need for deeper psychological and emotional growth to achieve lasting fulfillment.

    Effect of Topic Importance on Publication

    • The perceived importance of a research topic significantly influenced the researchers' decisions to continue or discontinue the study based on the simulated review process. This relationship highlights the biases that researchers may face and the potential pressure to conform to prevailing views on what constitutes a valuable research inquiry. As such, it is vital for researchers to strive for objectivity in their work and to consider underexplored or innovative areas that may not yet be deemed significant in the prevailing academic climate.

    Methodological Approach in Personality and Social Psychology

    • The experimental method is predominantly employed to examine cause-and-effect relationships between variables in personality and social psychology. This rigorous approach allows researchers to draw firm conclusions about the nature of psychological phenomena, while controlling for confounding variables and establishing clear avenues for future inquiry. The use of experimental designs is fundamental for testing hypotheses and validating theories within these domains of psychology.

    Factor Activating Concern About Observation

    • The presence of implied observation, as indicated by the dots in the Rigdon dictator games, activates concerns regarding social norms and expectations. This awareness prompts individuals to alter their behavior accordingly, often adhering more closely to socially accepted conduct or failing to act in ways they might otherwise consider. The implications of this phenomenon extend beyond experimental findings to real-world contexts, where perceived observation can have substantial effects on personal and group behavior.

    Measures of Social Dynamics

    • Researchers utilize various approaches to assess social dynamics, including self-report questionnaires, behavioral observations, and physiological measures. Each of these methods contributes uniquely to understanding the interaction between individuals and their social environments, allowing for a comprehensive examination of factors influencing social behavior. The integration of qualitative and quantitative methodologies further enhances the richness of data collected in social psychological research.

    Neurological Dysfunction Associated with Psychopathy

    • Research indicates that individuals with psychopathy often exhibit reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region crucial for emotional regulation, impulse control, and decision-making. The dysfunction in this area can lead to difficulties in processing emotional experiences, which may subsequently impact social interactions and moral reasoning. Understanding these neurological underpinnings provides valuable insight into the behavioral manifestations of psychopathy.

    Defining Characteristic of Psychopaths' Emotional Responsiveness

    • Psychopaths are characterized by a profound lack of empathy, remorse, and guilt, often appearing emotionally detached and unfeeling in their interactions with others. This emotional unresponsiveness can have severe implications for their relationships and societal integration, as it often allows them to manipulate or exploit others without the emotional consequences typically experienced by most individuals.

    Psychopaths' Aversive Stimuli Reaction

    • Individuals with psychopathy show markedly diminished physiological and emotional reactions to aversive stimuli that typically elicit fear or distress in others, such as violence or suffering. This lack of emotional reactivity can contribute to their risk-taking behavior and criminal tendencies, as they do not experience the same level of anxiety or concern that others would in response to potentially harmful or dangerous situations.

    Type of Psychopath Aggression

    • Psychopaths tend to engage in instrumental aggression, which is goal-directed and calculated to achieve a specific objective. Unlike reactive aggression, which is impulsive and occurs in response to a perceived threat, instrumental aggression is premeditated and used as a means to obtain power, control, or material gain. This distinction illuminates the strategic thinking of psychopathic individuals and the potential motivations behind their aggressive behaviors.

    Stronger Factor in Psychopathy Development

    • Research suggests that genetics are a stronger influence than environmental factors in the development of psychopathy. While environmental elements, such as upbringing and social experiences, undoubtedly play a role, hereditary traits and biological predispositions often create fundamental vulnerabilities that increase the likelihood of developing psychopathic characteristics. This understanding fosters further investigation into the genetic markers associated with psychopathy and the potential implications for treatment and prevention.

    'Addictive Personality' Characteristics

    • The concept of an 'addictive personality' encompasses a constellation of traits that can increase vulnerability to substance use and addiction. Characteristics such as impulsivity, a craving for novelty, sensation-seeking behavior, and low self-esteem contribute to a greater risk of developing addictive behaviors. This framework seeks to identify individuals who may be more susceptible to addiction, allowing for targeted interventions and support strategies.

    Gendreu & Gendreu's Research Key Finding

    • In their research, Gendreu and Gendreu found that there were no significant differences in personality traits between addicts and non-addicts. This finding challenges the prevailing notion of a distinct addictive personality by suggesting that addiction may not solely stem from inherent personality characteristics but could also be influenced by situational, contextual, and societal factors. Such insights prompt a reevaluation of how addiction is conceptualized within psychological frameworks.

    Personality Trait Correlated with Nicotine and Alcohol Consumption

    • Neuroticism, which is characterized by a tendency to experience negative emotions such as anxiety and worry, has been linked to increased nicotine and alcohol use. Individuals who score higher in neuroticism may use substances as a coping mechanism to alleviate their emotional distress or anxiety, leading to potentially problematic drinking or smoking behaviors. Understanding the connection between personality traits and substance use can inform prevention and treatment strategies for addiction.

    Common Factors Across Addictions

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) identified several common factors across various addictions, including impulsivity, reward sensitivity, and sensation-seeking behavior. These shared traits indicate that certain personality characteristics may predispose individuals to multiple forms of addiction, suggesting that underlying vulnerabilities can manifest in different addictive behaviors. This discovery urges further exploration into how these traits interact with specific substances and affect treatment approaches.

    Issue with 'Addictive Personality' Concept

    • The concept of an 'addictive personality' is often criticized for being overly simplistic, as it ignores the complexity of addiction, which is influenced by a multitude of factors, including genetic, environmental, and psychological influences. By reducing addiction to a set of personality traits, we risk neglecting the multifaceted nature of the condition and the interplay of external circumstances. This complexity necessitates a more holistic approach to understanding addiction, incorporating a broader range of influences beyond personality alone.

    Dash et al. (2019) Findings

    • The findings of Dash et al. (2019) indicated that while personality traits can be predictive of addiction outcomes, the nature of the relationship is intricate and varies depending on the specific addiction. This complexity suggests that interventions aimed at addressing personality factors must be tailored to the characteristics of the addiction in question and consider the individual's unique circumstances and history. Therefore, understanding these nuances is crucial for effective treatment and prevention strategies.

    Personality Trait Low in Individuals with Drug Use and Compulsive Sexual Behavior

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) found that individuals engaging in drug use and compulsive sexual behavior exhibited significantly lower levels of conscientiousness. This decreased conscientiousness may contribute to irresponsible decision-making and an inability to follow through with long-term goals, reinforcing patterns of addictive behavior. Recognizing this trait can guide interventions aimed at enhancing self-regulation and goal-setting capabilities for those in recovery.

    Implication of High Co-morbidity in Substance Use Disorders

    • High co-morbidity in substance use disorders suggests that individuals with one addiction are more likely to develop additional addictions, indicating shared underlying vulnerabilities or risk factors. This co-occurrence emphasizes the importance of early intervention and comprehensive treatment approaches that address multiple issues simultaneously to reduce the likelihood of further substance-related problems.

    Relationship Between Personality and Addiction Outcomes

    • Numerous studies suggest that personality traits can play a significant role in influencing the development and progression of addiction; however, these traits are not deterministic regarding addiction outcomes. Other contributing factors, such as environmental influences, social interactions, and individual experiences, also play critical roles in the formation of substance use disorders. This multifaceted understanding underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to treatment that consider a variety of influences alongside inherent personality traits.

    • e an individual. This definition underscores the importance of recognizing both stable and fluctuating aspects of personality, contributing to the assessment and diagnosis of psychological conditions. By understanding the interplay of these patterns over time, psychologists can make more informed conclusions about behaviors and potential future actions of individuals.

    Methodological Flaw in Published Studies

    • Publication bias, resulting in a tendency to publish only statistically significant findings, overlooking non-significant results. This phenomenon can skew the landscape of scientific literature, as it may create a false impression of the state of knowledge within a field. Recognizing this flaw is crucial for researchers and meta-analysts, as it highlights the importance of considering unpublished studies and the need for transparency in reporting research outcomes.

    Dependent Variable in the Within-Subjects Experiment

    • The participants' decision to continue or discontinue the study depending on the scenario presented. By analyzing these decisions, researchers can infer how different contextual factors influence participant motivation and engagement. This understanding can serve as a basis for improving research participation protocols, making them more appealing and effective in eliciting desired responses.

    Rigdon Dictator Game Outcome

    • When dots were implied to be observing, participants were more likely to keep all the money, highlighting the impact of social influence on decision-making. This outcome emphasizes the power of perceived social oversight in shaping ethical behaviors and choices, demonstrating that individuals may adjust their actions based on the anticipation of judgment or evaluation by others. Such findings have implications for understanding economic behaviors and designing interventions to promote fairness in resource distribution.

    Categories of Topics

    • Topics presented as important or not important for publication. This classification illustrates how subjective value judgments can shape research agendas and funding opportunities, influencing the trajectory of scientific inquiry. By identifying which topics are deemed worthy, researchers can advocate for broader perspectives to be considered that may currently be marginalized or overlooked in mainstream discussions.

    Critical Theory About Happiness

    • The hedonic treadmill suggests that individuals tend to adapt to happiness and experience similar levels of happiness over time, regardless of external circumstances. This theory posits that as people attain new achievements or possessions, they quickly return to their baseline levels of happiness, leading to an endless pursuit of external validation. Understanding this concept is vital for psychologists aiming to enhance well-being, as it underscores the importance of fostering intrinsic happiness and resilience rather than relying solely on external sources for fulfillment.

    Effect of Topic Importance on Publication

    • The research topic's perceived importance influenced the researchers' decision to continue or discontinue the study based on the simulated review process. This insight suggests that external factors and values held by the scientific community, including those shaped by funding bodies, may profoundly affect the direction of research. Acknowledging these influences can aid researchers in navigating the landscape of academic publication while also advocating for diverse and innovative research directions.

    Methodological Approach in Personality and Social Psychology

    • The experimental method is commonly employed to examine cause-and-effect relationships between variables. This approach provides rigorous controls for confounding variables, allowing researchers to make inferences about causal relationships with greater confidence. However, it also necessitates careful consideration of ecological validity, as laboratory settings may not adequately replicate real-world conditions. Thus, balancing experimental rigor with real-life applicability remains an ongoing challenge in the field.

    Factor Activating Concern About Observation

    • The presence of implied observation, as indicated by the dots in Rigdon dictator games, activated concerns about social norms and expectations, prompting individuals to behave differently. This phenomenon reflects the broader principle of social facilitation, where the presence of others influences individual performance and decision-making. Such findings unveil the profound impact of perceived social contexts on behavior, underscoring the importance of considering social cues when studying psychological dynamics.

    Measures of Social Dynamics

    • Researchers use self-report questionnaires, behavioral observations, and physiological measures to assess social dynamics. Each of these methods provides unique insights into different aspects of social behavior. Self-report measures often capture subjective experiences, while behavioral observations lend an objective perspective on actions in social contexts. Physiological measures, such as heart rate or galvanic skin response, offer additional depth into the emotional arousal accompanying social interactions. Integrating these approaches leads to a more comprehensive understanding of social dynamics.

    Neurological Dysfunction Associated with Psychopathy

    • Reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making. This dysfunction has been linked to impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors characteristic of psychopathy. Studies utilizing neuroimaging techniques have provided evidence for the connection between brain structure and psychopathic traits, emphasizing the biological underpinnings of these conditions. Understanding these neurological factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions for those affected by psychopathy.

    Defining Characteristic of Psychopaths' Emotional Responsiveness

    • They exhibit a lack of empathy, remorse, and guilt, often appearing emotionally detached and unfeeling. This emotional disconnection can profoundly affect social relationships and moral decision-making, creating challenges for interpersonal interactions. Analyzing these attributes is essential for identifying the psychological and behavioral patterns that are indicative of psychopathic individuals, which can improve therapeutic techniques and rehabilitation strategies aimed at promoting emotional awareness.

    Psychopaths' Aversive Stimuli Reaction

    • They show diminished physiological and emotional reactions to aversive stimuli that typically elicit fear or distress in others. This lack of reaction can indicate a dysfunction in the neural pathways responsible for processing emotional responses to negative stimuli, which is a critical element in understanding the psychopath's cognitive and emotional landscape. Research into this area raises important considerations about how psychopathic traits may manifest in behavior, affecting everything from criminal activity to risk assessment in therapeutic settings.

    Type of Psychopath Aggression

    • They tend to use instrumental aggression, which is goal-directed and calculated, to achieve a specific objective. This form of aggression stands in contrast to emotional aggression, which arises from impulsive reactions to provocation. Understanding the motivations and methods of psychopaths in their aggressive interactions helps to clarify treatment approaches and prevention strategies, as it indicates a level of premeditation that can influence interventions and risk management in clinical or forensic settings.

    Stronger Factor in Psychopathy Development

    • Genetics are considered a stronger influence than environmental factors in the development of psychopathy. Twin and adoption studies bolster the argument for a heritable component in psychopathic traits, suggesting that certain genetic predispositions may increase an individual's vulnerability to developing these characteristics. Therefore, understanding these genetic influences can help in identifying high-risk individuals and provide a basis for early intervention strategies that could mitigate the development of psychopathy.

    'Addictive Personality' Characteristics

    • It involves a constellation of traits that increase vulnerability to substance use and addiction, including impulsivity, craving novelty, sensation-seeking, and low self-esteem. Research into addictive personalities has sought to clarify the link between specific personality traits and the propensity for addiction. Acknowledging and addressing these traits within therapeutic settings can enhance treatment strategies aimed at fostering healthier behaviors and reducing the risk of substance misuse in at-risk individuals.

    Gendreu & Gendreu's Research Key Finding

    • Addicts and non-addicts did not differ significantly in personality traits. This finding challenges the prevailing theories that an 'addictive personality' exists as a distinct set of traits. Instead, it suggests that addiction may be a complex interplay between various factors, including environmental stresses, life experiences, and psychological conditions, underlining the need for personalized approaches in the treatment and understanding of addictive behaviors.

    Personality Trait Correlated with Nicotine and Alcohol Consumption

    • Neuroticism, characterized by a tendency to experience negative emotions like anxiety and worry, has been linked to increased nicotine and alcohol use. This correlation suggests that individuals high in neuroticism may turn to substances as a maladaptive coping mechanism to manage their emotional states. Understanding the relationship between personality and substance use can facilitate approaches that target emotional regulation skills as a preventative measure against substance dependency.

    Common Factors Across Addictions

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) identified impulsivity, reward sensitivity, and sensation-seeking as common factors across various addictions. Recognizing these shared traits allows for the exploration of more comprehensive treatment strategies that address the underlying psychological features driving multiple addictive behaviors rather than treating each addiction as isolated. This unified approach can enhance the effectiveness of intervention programs aimed at reducing addiction risk and promoting recovery.

    Issue with 'Addictive Personality' Concept

    • It is overly simplistic and ignores the complexity of addiction, which is influenced by multiple factors, including genetic, environmental, and psychological influences. This critique highlights the necessity of adopting a more nuanced perspective when examining addiction, suggesting that addressing addiction requires a multi-faceted approach that considers individual histories and circumstances, rather than relying on generalized personality traits alone.

    Dash et al.(2019) Findings

    • The study indicated that personality traits can be predictive of addiction outcomes, but the nature of the relationship is complex and varies depending on the specific addiction. This complexity suggests that while certain traits may indicate risk for developing an addiction, they may not uniformly predict outcomes across different substances or behaviors. As such, tailoring interventions that consider an individual’s unique personality profile and specific addiction is vital for promoting successful treatment and recovery outcomes.

    Personality Trait Low in Individuals with Drug Use and Compulsive Sexual Behavior

    • Zilberman et al. (2018) found that individuals with drug use and compulsive sexual behavior exhibited significantly lower levels of conscientiousness. This correlation suggests that a lack of self-discipline and organization may contribute to higher susceptibility to engaging in risky behaviors, including substance abuse and compulsive sexuality. Understanding such links guides treatment approaches that focus on enhancing self-regulatory skills as a therapeutic avenue to mitigate the risk of these behaviors.

    Implication of High Co-morbidity in Substance Use Disorders

    • This suggests that individuals with one addiction are more likely to develop other addictions, indicating shared underlying vulnerabilities or risk factors. Recognizing this co-morbidity is critical for effective assessment and treatment planning, ensuring that interventions address multiple addictions concurrently rather than sequentially. By adopting an integrated treatment approach, practitioners can improve outcomes and reduce overall relapse rates among individuals facing multiple addictive challenges.

    Relationship Between Personality and Addiction Outcomes

    • Studies suggest that personality traits can play a role in influencing the development and progression of addiction, but they are not deterministic, and other factors also contribute to the formation of substance use disorders. This nuanced view highlights the importance of considering multiple dimensions in addiction research and treatment, including situational, environmental, and psychological factors, ultimately leading to more effective, holistic intervention strategies that aim to decrease the incidence of substance-related problems.

    Hypothesis

    • Larger container size will increase intake of both fresh and stale popcorn compared to small container size.

    Operationalizing Variables

    • Actual consumption (weight) of fresh and stale popcorn.
    • Movie goers.

    Research Design

    • Randomly assign participants to receive free popcorn on entry to a cinema.
    • Old or fresh popcorn.
    • Medium or large containers.

    Data Collection

    • Free popcorn at entry.
    • Weight written on bottom of container.
    • Containers were sized so all the popcorn would be consumed.
    • Collected containers at the end of the movie and weighed.
    • Popcorn quality ratings (stale was rated as stale).

    Results

    • Larger container size increased consumption of both fresh and stale popcorn.

    Factorial Designs

    • Typically involve 2 or more categorical independent variables.
    • Can be between-subjects factors or within-subjects factors.

    Experimental Designs

    • Involve a comparison of a treatment and a control group.
    • Allow attribution of causality.
    • Common types include between subjects designs, within subjects designs, factorial designs, and quasi-experimental designs.

    Stress & Magical Thinking

    • Background: Magical thinking and superstition are common features of human cognition. Stress affects cognitive functioning and might also increase magical thinking.
    • Research question: Is there a relationship between magical thinking and stress?
    • Hypothesis: There will be a negative relationship between regional disease prevalence and:
      • Unrestricted sexual style (many casual partners).
      • Extraversion.
      • Openness to experience.

    Operationalizing Variables for Stress & Magical Thinking

    • Regional disease prevalence.
    • Regional personality differences.

    Measuring Variables for Stress & Magical Thinking

    • Old medical atlas data of relative prevalence of infectious diseases in 71 regions throughout the world.
    • 9 different infectious diseases throughout the world.
    • Cross-cultural studies of Big 5 personality factors and socio-sexual orientation (SOI).

    Personality & Crime

    • Young people (ages 15-22) are at higher risk of committing crimes.
    • Females have lower arrest rates throughout history, except for prostitution. Males are more likely to be violent.
    • Concentrated disadvantage (poverty, family disruption) is linked to higher crime rates.
    • Murray et al (2010): Prospective longitudinal study found that early risk factors at age 10 predicted later convictions at ages 30-34. This includes maternal smoking in pregnancy, low cognitive stimulation, hyperactivity, poor visual-motor skills, and internalizing problems (not sharing or talking about problems).

    Personalities & Crime (Eysenck, 1977)

    • Criminal personality is high in PEN (psychoticism, extraversion, neuroticism).
    • Problem with this theory: It relies heavily on prison samples, which over-represents some personality traits while under-representing others.
    • "Hidden criminals" also pose a problem because they are not caught.
    • Non-prisoner control samples may include "hidden criminals".

    Caspi et al (1994)

    • Studied 2 samples:
      • New Zealand birth cohort at age 18.
      • Pittsburgh: ethnically diverse 12-13 year old boys.
    • Assessed personality (MPQ) and delinquency.
    • Findings: increased delinquent participation is linked to higher negative emotionality (NE) and lower Constraint (poorer impulse control).
    • Delinquency is consistent across countries, ages, genders, and ethnic groups.
    • Negative emotions may translate more easily to antisocial acts.

    Traits & Antisocial Behavior (ASB)

    • Miller & Lynam (2001): Meta-analysis of 60 studies.
    • Assessed various personality tests and ASB (violence, crime delinquency, aggression).
    • Main finding: ASB is associated with low Agreeableness (hostility) and low Conscientiousness (poor impulse control).

    Personality & Sexual Assault

    • Voller & Long (2010) compared rape perpetrators, sexual assault perpetrators, and non-perpetrators on the FFM (Five Factor Model).
    • Sample: 493 US male university students.
    • Findings: Sexual assault perpetrators were more similar to non-perpetrators than rape perpetrators. Rape perpetrators had lower Agreeableness (A) and Conscientiousness (C) compared to both sexual-assault perpetrators and non-perpetrators.

    Introduction to the Dark Personality Traits

    • Psychopathy:
      • Shallow affect.
      • Callousness.
      • Lack of remorse.
      • Lack of empathy.
      • Gibness (lack of interest in others).
      • Superficial charm.
      • Manipulativeness.
      • Irresponsibility.
    • Narcissism:
      • Exaggerated sense of self-importance.
      • Sense of entitlement.
      • Intense need for admiration.
      • Exploitative.
      • Deficient empathy.
      • Arrogance.

    Personality & Sexual Assault (Mouilso & Calhoun, 2012)

    • Sample: 235 university students.
    • Assessed FFM, self-reported narcissism, psychopathy, and sexual assault perpetration.
    • Findings:
      • 18.3% reported perpetrating sexual assault.
      • 4.7% reported committing an act meeting the legal definition of rape.
      • Perpetrators had lower Agreeableness (A) and Conscientiousness (C) compared to non-perpetrators.
      • Narcissism and psychopathy best distinguished perpetrators from non-perpetrators.

    Personality & White Collar Crime

    • Push & Holtfreter (2021) meta-analysis.
    • Examined age, education, gender, ethnicity, and personality linked to white collar crime.
    • Findings:
      • Strongest predictors: negative relationship with honesty and agreeableness.
      • Positive relationship with psychopathy and narcissism.
      • "Corporate psychopathy" is linked to white collar crime.

    Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

    • DSM-5: Individuals who engage in repetitive, irresponsible, delinquent, and criminal behavior.
    • Characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others beginning early in life (childhood or early adolescence).
    • Most consistently diagnosed personality disorder.
    • Prevalence:
      • General population: 3% men, 1% women.
      • Prison samples: 47% men, 21% women.
    • ASPD individuals are prone to substance use disorders: 80-85% meet the criteria.
    • ASPD is more common in males and linked to alcohol abuse disorder in more than 70% of cases.
    • More likely to die prematurely by violent means (e.g., suicide, accidents, homicides).

    Moeller & Dougherty (2001): Study on ASPD & Alcohol

    • Participants:
      • Control group: no disorder.
      • Group given alcohol.
      • Group given placebo.
    • Engaged in a button-pressing game where pressing one button earned money and another button could deduct points from an opponent.
    • Findings: Participants with ASPD were more likely to engage in aggressive and exploitative behavior during the "game" when alcohol was present.

    Delisi et al (2019): Study on ASPD & Criminal Careers

    • Focused on ASPD in prisoners.
    • Findings:
      • Offenders with no history of ASPD had the least severe criminal careers.
      • Those with ASPD symptoms had a more severe criminal career.
      • Those with a formal ASPD diagnostic history had the most severe criminal careers.

    Antisocial Personality Disorder: Causes

    • Combination of genetic and environmental factors.
    • Associated with:
      • Child abuse/neglect.
      • Unstable/erratic parenting.
      • Inconsistent parental discipline.
      • Poverty.
      • Childhood physical/sexual abuse.

    Antisocial Personality Disorder: Treatment

    • Individuals with ASPD are unlikely to seek help.
    • The belief that it is untreatable is common.
    • Little evidence that treatment reduces recidivism (reoffending).
    • Systematic reviews have shown no compelling evidence of change in antisocial behavior as a result of treatment.

    Introduction to Psychopathy

    • Stereotypes revolve around personality traits like:
      • Predatory behavior
      • Emotional detachment
      • Callousness
      • Impulsivity
      • Persistent antisocial behavior.

    Robert Hare's Psychopathy Checklist

    • Developed a checklist to systematically assess individuals for the characteristics of psychopathy.

    ASPD & Psychopathy: DSM-5

    • Psychopathy is considered a subset of Antisocial Personality Disorder.
    • Primary psychopathy is characterized by low anxiety, narcissism, and a potential genetic component.
    • Secondary psychopathy involves high anxiety, often linked to acquired causes.

    Psychopathy Assessment

    • Gold standard: Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R).
    • Assessed through a combination of a semi-structured interview and independent data (case reports, files).
    • Dimensions of psychopathy assessed:
      • Interpersonal (e.g., conning, pathological lying).
      • Affective functioning (e.g., callousness, failure to accept responsibility).
      • Lifestyle (e.g., impulsive, parasitic, irresponsible).
      • Antisocial tendencies (e.g., poor behavioral controls, rule breaking behavior).

    Psychopathy & Crime

    • Psychopaths are often studied in prison settings.
    • Debate about whether committing crimes is a core feature of psychopathy.
    • "Organizational psychopaths" are individuals with psychopathic traits who operate in professional settings.

    Psychopathy & Antisocial Behavior (Leistico et al., 2008)

    • Meta-analysis of 95 studies.
    • Findings: "Social deviance" factor (PCL-R) strongly predicted antisocial conduct.
    • Overall, psychopathy is a strong predictor of recidivism.

    Psychopathy & Sadism

    • Sadism: Hurting others for pleasure.
    • Historical DSM-III-R: "Sadistic Personality Disorder".
    • Consistent link between psychopathy and sadism.
    • O'Connell & Marcus (2019): Meta-analysis (Forensic samples: N= 5,161) found a positive correlation between psychopathy and sadism.

    Causes of Psychopathy

    • Secondary psychopathy: Often linked to adverse childhood experiences.
    • Primary psychopathy:
      • Low fearfulness.
      • Poor moral socialization due to low fearfulness.
      • Blair (2006): Neurodevelopmental personality disorder involving emotional impairment and decreased empathy. Potential genetic origins.

    Primary Psychopathy & Emotional Deficits

    • Diminished emotionality: Deficits in empathy and conscience.
    • Emotional intelligence: Ability to perceive, use, understand, and regulate emotions in oneself and others.
    • Megias et al. (2018): Meta-analysis found that higher psychopathic trait scores were linked to lower levels of emotional intelligence.

    Psychopathy & Treatment

    • Psychopaths are more likely to exhibit inpatient aggression and greater treatment disruption during therapy.
    • There are mixed findings regarding the effectiveness of treatment for psychopathy. Some studies suggest that treatment made some psychopaths more aggressive, while others found no change in aggression.

    Dark Triad

    • A constellation of personality traits: psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism.
    • A modern alternative to the Big 5 personality model.

    Psychopathy (Dark Triad)

    • Predatory/antisocial behavior.
    • Emotional detachment.
    • Callousness and insensitivity.
    • Impulsivity.
    • Lack of empathy.
    • Narcissism.

    Narcissism (Dark Triad)

    • Grandiose self-view: Inflated self-importance, need for admiration, lack of empathy/intimacy, sense of entitlement.
    • Self-enhancing regulation strategies.
    • Two types: Overt and Covert.
    • Both narcissistic types are self-absorbed and arrogant.
    • Overt: Grandiosity/exhibitionism.
    • Covert: Hypersensitivity/vulnerability

    Machiavellianism (Dark Triad)

    • Linked to Niccolò Machiavelli, a political philosopher.
    • Cynical approach to life: The ends justify the means, utilitarian attitude.
    • Maximize self-interest through deception and disregard for others.
    • Manipulate others to get their own way.
    • Place low value on community and family.

    Equivalent Dark Triad Traits

    • There is debate whether the “Dark Triad” traits are truly interchangeable or distinct.
    • Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between these traits and their impact on behavior.

    Well-being & Basic Needs

    • Positive experiences and fewer negative experiences are associated with more satisfied psychological needs.
    • A study across 132 nations found cross-cultural factors that influence well-being.
    • A meta-analysis examining autonomy in the US and East Asia showed moderate correlation between autonomy and subjective well-being.
    • The study found no significant difference between the East and West regarding the correlation.

    Facilitating Intrinsic Motivation

    • Providing choices can increase vegetable intake in children.
    • Intrinsic motivation is a stronger predictor of the quality of work performance.
    • Extrinsic motivation is a stronger predictor of quantity of work performance.

    Personality Factors in Well-being

    • A meta-analysis of 137 personality traits identified key predictors of subjective well-being.
    • The Big Five personality traits, specifically neuroticism, extraversion, and agreeableness, are significant predictors of subjective well-being.

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    Description

    Explore the fundamentals of Personality and Social Psychology, focusing on how individual differences shape behavior and the impact of social situations on thoughts and feelings. This quiz also addresses the criticisms of existing research and emphasizes the need for innovative insights in these fields.

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