Psychology of Extraversion and Arousal

The outward expression of an organism's traits, determined by the interaction of genes and environment.

A measure of how much of a trait's variation is due to genetic factors.

The study of how brain structures relate to personality traits.

The section of the brain responsible for planning, working memory, and decision-making. It may play a significant role in Trait Neuroticism.

The process of transforming genetic information into proteins.

A person's natural level of arousal, influenced by the Ascending Reticular Activating System (ARAS). Extroverts have higher arousal and seek more stimulation, while introverts have lower arousal and prefer less stimulation.

A brain structure that regulates arousal and attention in response to sensory stimuli. Higher activity in the ARAS leads to higher arousal, while lower activity leads to lower arousal.

A personality trait characterized by a tendency to be outgoing, sociable, and enjoy social interaction. Extraverts have higher arousal and seek out stimulation.

A personality trait characterized by a tendency to be introspective, reserved, and prefer quiet and solitary activities. Introverts have lower arousal and prefer less stimulation.

A brain structure responsible for processing and managing emotional responses. Higher activity in the limbic system is associated with higher levels of neuroticism.

The total effect of a trait stemming from genetic loci, where each locus contributes measurably towards the trait.

Genes that are always expressed, regardless of the presence of other genes, leading to a dominant phenotype.

Genes interacting with each other, where the effect of one gene depends on the presence or absence of another gene, creating complex trait expression.

The portion of environmental influence that is unique to each individual, distinct from shared family experiences.

The extent to which genetic factors contribute to individual differences in a trait, as estimated from twin studies.

Identical twins raised separately share similar DNA sequences but experience different environments, allowing us to isolate the impact of genetics vs. environment.

A gene associated with dopamine function, potentially linked to novelty-seeking and impulsivity, but not impacting extraversion.

Studies on twins and adoptees that have helped researchers disentangle the relative influences of genetics and environment on personality traits.

The idea that personality traits within a species might have a biological basis.

A research method used to study animal personality by observing their behavior in different situations.

A study that used factor analysis to analyze personality in different animal species (including chimps, gorillas, monkeys, hyenas, and even octopuses!).

A study that examined the repeatability of exploratory behavior in Great Tits.

The concept of personality traits in animal species being relatively consistent over time, even when studied in different settings.

A theory that explains personality based on three neurological systems: the Behavioral Approach System (BAS), the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS), and the Fight-Flight-Freeze System.

The neurological system associated with impulsivity and positive emotions. It responds to signals of impending reward, triggering approach behavior. This system involves the medial forebrain bundle and lateral hypothalamus.

The neurological system linked to anxiety and negative emotions. It responds to signals of punishment, triggering inhibition and withdrawal from threats. This system is comprised of the septo-hippocampal system and its connected structures.

A neurological system involved in responding to immediate threats. It triggers escape behavior, including fighting, fleeing, or freezing.

The idea that personality traits can be influenced by environmental factors. This suggests that our personalities aren't fixed, but can change depending on our experiences and surroundings.

A biological model that explains how our brains respond to rewards and punishments. This system includes the Behavioral Approach System (BAS) and the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS).

A type of brain imaging technique that measures brain activity while the individual is at rest.

The connectivity between different brain regions. It plays a role in understanding how information flows and is processed in the brain.

A brain system that is activated by rewards and new events, contributing to an individual's impulsivity. Think of it as a 'go' system, making you seek out pleasurable experiences.

A brain system responding to immediate and severe threats, leading to fight, flight, or freeze response. Think of it as a survival mechanism triggered by danger.

A theory that suggests our personalities are influenced by how our brains respond to rewards and punishments. Think of it as a way of explaining why some people are more impulsive or cautious.

The tendency to trust others and cooperate in social situations. Think of it as having faith in others and being willing to work together.

A measure of how willing someone is to conform to social norms and cooperate. Think of it as being a team player and following the rules.

A measure of how likely someone is to climb the social ladder and strive for dominance. Think of it as having ambition and a competitive drive.

The idea that our personalities are influenced by the evolutionary pressures we have faced. Think of it as our traits being shaped by survival needs.