Theories of Personality PDF

THEORIES OF PERSONALITY - An Overview of Key Theories - Presented by: Zakia, Abdullah, Maryam, Nimra, Maria What is Personality? Personality refers to the unique ways we think, feel, and act. Personality varies individual to individ...

THEORIES OF PERSONALITY - An Overview of Key Theories - Presented by: Zakia, Abdullah, Maryam, Nimra, Maria What is Personality? Personality refers to the unique ways we think, feel, and act. Personality varies individual to individual, e.g one might be expressive, introverted, aggressive, or uplifting, etc. Psychologists have different ideas how personality forms and develops.  Understanding Theories of Personality 1. Theories of Personality 4. Adler’s Theory of Personality 2. Psychoanalysis 5. Roger’s Self Theory 3. Jung’s Analytical Theory 6. Assessment of Personality  Topic 1 : presented by Zakia Shahid Theories of Personality These theories explain how personality develops and influences behavior. Helps us understand differences in thoughts, emotions, and actions. Used in therapy, education, and workplace settings. 16 Theories: Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory, Jung's Analytical Psychology, Adler's Theory, Maslow's Theory, Rogers' Self Theory, Eysenck's Three Dimensions, Cattell's 16 Personality Factors, Big Five Theory, Skinner's Behavioral Theory, Bandura's Social Learning Theory, Kelly's Personal Construct Theory, Murray's Needs Theory, Rotter’s Locus of Control Theory, Allport’s Trait Theory, Holland's Career Choice Theory, Sheldon’s Somatotype Theory. Sheldon’s Somatotype Theory: Proposed by William Sheldon, it suggests that “body types influence personality traits.” categorizes people into three types: Endomorph, Mesomorph, Ectomorph. Endomorph: Round, soft body; associated with sociability and relaxation. Mesomorph: Muscular, athletic body; linked to assertiveness and confidence. Ectomorph: Thin, fragile body; related to introversion and sensitivity. Jung’s Analytical Theory: Presented by Carl Jung, it emphasized the collective unconscious and archetypes. Concepts include: Archetypes; universal symbols like The Hero, The Shadow, and The Wise Old Man. Introversion/Extraversion: Focus on inner thoughts vs. external social interactions. Examples: Archetypes: The Hero is seen in movies like Harry Potter. Introversion/Extraversion: one feels energized by reading vs. one feels energized by networking. Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory: Found by Sigmund Freud, revolves around the unconscious mind and psychosexual development. Id, Ego, Superego: ID is impulsive desires, Ego is realistic balance, and Superego is moral guidance. Defense Mechanisms: Strategies to cope with anxiety, like denial or repression. Psychosexual Stages of Development: oral stage, anal stage, phallic stage, latent stage, genital stage. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: Abraham Maslow organized human needs into five levels: Physiological Needs: Basic survival (food, water). Safety Needs: Security (job, health). Belongingness: Relationships and friendships. Esteem Needs: Respect and recognition. Self-Actualization: Achieving potential and creativity.  Criticism: 1. Lack of Empirical Evidence: Sheldon’s Theory, criticized for lack of strong scientific support. Jung’s Theory relies heavily on abstract ideas, which are difficult to measure. 2. Limited Practical Application: Aspects like archetypes or traits, can be hard to identify consistently in individuals. Maslow’s hierarchy, idealistic and not universally applicable across cultures. 3. Limitations: Freud’s theory is overly subjective, lacks scientific rigor and focuses on early life stages, downplaying impact of adult experiences. Overemphasis on Traits and/or Types.  Topic 2: presented by Abdullah Kashif Psychoanalysis Developed by Sigmund Freud, in 1896. It is a type of treatment based on the theory which encompasses the idea that our present is shaped by our past. Key Concepts include, Unconscious Mind and Defense mechanisms (e.g., repression, denial, projection). Psychoanalysis (Freud’s Theory): Unconscious Mind: most of our personality is shaped by unconscious desires, fears, and memories that we aren’t aware of. These hidden parts affect our behaviors. For example, if someone has repressed anger from childhood, they might unknowingly act impatient with others. Defense Mechanisms: These are strategies we use to protect ourselves from uncomfortable emotions. Common ones include: Denial, Projection, and even Repression. Denial: Refusing to accept reality. Projection: Attributing your feelings to someone else. Repression: Blocking out painful memories or feelings from our conscious mind.  Psychoanalysis (Freud’s Theory): Id, Ego, and Superego: Freud proposed that our personality is made up of three parts, Id: The impulsive part of the personality that wants immediate gratification Ego: The part that tries to balance desires with what is socially acceptable Superego: The moral part of our personality that guides us with values and rules Psychosexual Stages of Development: Freud believed we go through five stages as we grow: Oral Stage (0-1 years): Focus is on the mouth (e.g., sucking, biting). Anal Stage (1-3 years): Focus is on control over elimination (e.g., potty training). Phallic Stage (3-6 years): Focus is on genitals. Boys experience Oedipus complex (desire for mother), and girls experience Electra complex (desire for father). Latency Stage (6-puberty): Sexual feelings are dominant, children focus on developing friendships and learning new skills. Genital Stage (puberty onward): Sexual desires emerge again, and the focus is on mature, adult relationships.  Criticism: Too Focused on the Unconscious; overemphasizes unconscious desires and ignores conscious thoughts and external factors. Lack of Scientific Evidence; its hard to test or prove scientifically. Bias in Freud’s Work; based on a limited sample (mostly upper-class women). Outdated Ideas; for example Freud might interpret a dream as repressed desires, but modern psychologists would consider other explanations like stress or daily events.  Topic 3: presented by Maria Ilyas Jung’s Analytical Theory Found by Carl Jung, (a close colleague of Sigmund Freud) in 1909. Archetypes: Universal symbols like the Hero (superheroes) and Shadow (villains). Collective Unconscious: Shared experiences and memories across all humans. Introversion vs. Extraversion, Self-Actualization and Individuation. Example: A person who enjoys quiet evenings (introvert) vs. one who loves big parties (extravert). Carl Jung’s Theory: 1. Archetypes: Jung identified universal symbols in human stories and behaviors. Examples include: Hero: Someone brave who overcomes challenges (e.g., superheroes). Shadow: The darker side of personality (e.g., villains in movies). 2. Collective Unconscious: Jung proposed that all humans share a set of inherited memories and instincts. For example, most cultures have stories about good triumphing over evil. 3. Introversion vs. Extraversion: Introverts: Prefer calm environments, like reading or quiet gatherings. Extraverts: Enjoy social settings and get energy from being around people Example: a person who feels energized after a big party might be an extravert a person who enjoys a solo movie night might be an introvert. Carl Jung’s Theory: Anima/Animus: two important concepts in Jung's Theory, representing the feminine and masculine aspects within each person Anima: the feminine side of a man's unconscious mind, such as intuition, emotion, empathy, etc. Animus: the masculine side of a woman’s unconscious mind, such as logic, strength, action, etc. Anima and Animus in Relationships: Jung believed that when people integrate their Anima or Animus, they experience greater balance within themselves, which can improve their relationships. For example, Anima: men who are highly logical or avoid emotions might develop a deeper understanding of their feelings or become more comfortable expressing them-this could be Anima becoming active. Animus: women who tend to be passive start to take charge in projects or become more assertive-this could be the Animus becoming more dominant.  Carl Jung’s Theory: Self-Realization and Individuation: Jung believed that the goal of life is to achieve self- realization, which is the process of becoming the person you truly are. This is done through individuation—the journey of integrating different parts of your personality, including those that you’ve repressed. Example: A person who discovers and embraces their creative side, even if they’ve always been shy or quiet, is going through the process of individuation, becoming a more complete version of themselves.  Criticism: 1. Lack of Empirical Evidence: Ideas such as the collective unconscious and archetypes, are difficult to test scientifically, and rely heavily on subjective interpretation rather than measurable data. 2. Overemphasis on Spirituality and Individuality: incorporates spirituality and mysticism, which is viewed as unscientific and overly abstract. leans heavily toward personal growth and self-discovery. 3. Time-Consuming Approach: Exploring archetypes, dreams, and the unconscious mind requires extensive time and effort. less practical for individuals seeking quick solutions to their psychological issues.  Topic 4: presented by Maryam Riaz Adler’s Theory of Personality Discovered by Alfred Adler, in 1912. Outspokenly critical of Freud as his ideas differed particularly regarding the importance of the social realm. Adler and a group of followers began developing what they called individual psychology. Inferiority Complex Striving for Superiority Social Interest  Adler’s Theory of Personality: Inferiority Complex: Adler believed that all humans experience feelings of inferiority at some point in their lives. These feelings motivate us to strive for improvement. For example, a student who feels they’re not good at sports might work hard to improve their skills and become confident. Striving for Superiority: This doesn’t mean dominating others. It’s about personal growth and becoming the best version of ourselves. For example, a shy student may join a public speaking club to be able to gain confidence. Social Interest: Adler emphasized the role of relationships and community in shaping personality. For example, a person volunteers at an animal shelter, feeling fulfilled by helping others.  Criticism: 1. Overemphasis on Social Factors: Focuses heavily on social interactions and downplays biological and genetic influences. Example: People with introverted tendencies may feel their personality isn’t adequately explained by social interest alone. 2. Lack of Empirical Evidence: Many of Adler’s ideas, like striving for superiority, are hard to test scientifically. For example, how can we measure someone’s “superiority striving” in an objective way? 3. Too Idealistic: Critics argue that not everyone has a natural inclination towards community, social interactions and social good.  Topic 4: presented by Nimra Maqsood Rogers’ Self Theory Presented by Carl Rogers, in 1961 and was based on 19 propositions. “All individuals (organisms) exist in a continually changing world of experience (phenomenal field) of which they are the center”. Two key concepts: Self-Concept Unconditional Positive Regard Real vs Ideal Self  Roger’s Self Theory: Self-Concept: Explanation: This is how we view ourselves, including our strengths and weaknesses. A positive self-concept helps us thrive, while a negative one can lead to self-doubt. Example: Someone who sees themselves as creative might pursue art, while someone who doubts their abilities might avoid challenges. Unconditional Positive Regard: Explanation: Receiving love and acceptance without conditions allows people to grow emotionally. Example: A teacher encouraging a struggling student by focusing on their efforts instead of just their grades.  Roger’s Self Theory: Real vs. Ideal Self: Explanation: Growth happens when our real self (who we are) aligns with our ideal self (who we want to be). Example: A person who dreams of being a kind friend works on being more patient and supportive. Everyday Example: A child who feels unconditionally loved by their parents might have higher self-esteem and be more confident in trying new activities.  Criticism: 1. Overly Optimistic: Theory assumes all people strive for personal growth and self-actualization, but not everyone prioritizes these. Example: Some individuals might prioritize survival or immediate needs over personal growth. 2. Too Subjective: The concepts of “real self” and “ideal self” are difficult to define and measure. Example: What one person views as their ideal self may not be understood by another. 3. Ignores Negative Influences: Critics say Rogers overlooks external factors like poverty or trauma that may hinder self-actualization.  Topic 6: presented by Zakia and Maryam Assessment of Personality MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) Big Five Personality Test Projective Tests Rorschach Inkblot Test Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)  Personality Assessment Tools: MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator): Explanation: Categorizes people into 16 personality types based on preferences like introversion vs. extraversion. Example: An INFJ might prefer deep conversations, while an ESTP enjoys adventures. Big Five Personality Test: Explanation: Receiving love and acceptance without conditions allows people to grow emotionally. Example: A teacher encouraging a struggling student by focusing on their efforts instead of just their grades. Everyday Example: Someone discovers that they’re high in openness, inspiring them to try new hobbies.  Projective Tests: Rorschach Inkblot Test: Explanation: People are shown abstract inkblots and asked to interpret them, revealing their unconscious thoughts. Example: Seeing a butterfly might suggest creativity or freedom, while seeing a storm might indicate stress. Projective Tests (continued): Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): Explanation: People create stories based on ambiguous images, which reflect their desires and conflicts. Example: A person describing a lonely character might be projecting their feelings of isolation. Everyday Use and Example: Therapists might use these tests to understand why someone feels anxious or unmotivated, especially if they can’t express their feelings directly.  Criticism: Subjectivity in Interpretation: Results heavily depend on the psychologist's interpretation, which varies widely. This lack of standardization makes it difficult to draw consistent conclusions from these tests. Questionable Validity: Projective tests lack strong evidence linking their results to actual behaviors or psychological states. Cultural and Contextual Bias: The ambiguous nature of these tests may not resonate equally across all cultural or social backgrounds. Responses might be misinterpreted if the individual’s cultural norms differ from the psychologist’s perspective.  ? ? ? ANY QUESTIONS? ? ? ? THANK YOU!