Psychology Of Personality

Medically reviewed by April Justice, LICSW

Updated October 11, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

For years, psychologists have studied personality, personality traits, and the various factors that can influence personality. Over time, this area of study has produced a number of theoretical perspectives that can provide insight into the complex and multifaceted nature of human behavior. For years, psychologists have studied personality, personality traits, and the various factors that might influence and contribute to personality. In the scientific sense, this study is referred to as personality psychology.

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An overview of the psychology of personality

Personality encompasses the diverse traits and characteristics that define an individual, including behaviors, motivations, thought patterns, and interests. It reflects the unique patterns in which we interact with our surroundings and internalize experiences, driven by individual differences. These range from observable actions to internal motivations and cognitive perspectives, shaping our responses to life's challenges and steering our interests. Essentially, personality is the composite of various aspects that jointly craft our distinct identity, influencing our choices and defining our individuality in the human tapestry.

How personality characteristics develop

The development of individual personalities is influenced by a blend of nature and nurture, and much personality research revolves around examining how these traits develop. Research suggests genetics and biological factors (nature) likely lay the groundwork for our temperament and predispositions. Environmental factors (nurture), such as upbringing, cultural context, and life experiences, are also known to play a crucial role in how personality develops. This interaction between inherited traits and environmental experiences is central to understanding personality psychology and personality development, illustrating the dynamic and multifaceted nature of human personality.

Personality psychology theories and personality traits

Personality psychology has been the subject of much research and debate. Scientists and academics have developed various theories and perspectives to help explain personality characteristics and how they form.

Trait theory

Trait theory proposes that individual personality is influenced and determined by personality traits. Trait theory proposes that each individual’s personality is composed of cardinal traits, central traits, and secondary traits are recurring themes within this particular subsection of personality psychology.

Cardinal traits are viewed as the foundation upon which individuals base their lives and can be positive or negative. Cardinal traits may include characteristics such as generosity, narcissism, compassion, or ambition, among others. Central traits are not necessarily defining features, but may be nonetheless prominent. Smartness, outspokenness, and deceit are examples of central traits. Finally, secondary traits tend to be those that only present in certain circumstances, such as stage fright. Trait theory is the basis for many other theories related to personality and personality traits, including:

Type A and Type B Personality Theory: This theory categorizes individuals into two distinct personality types. Type A personalities are typically characterized as driven, competitive, highly organized, and ambitious. In contrast, Type B personalities are generally more relaxed, less competitive, and less easily stressed.
Big 5 Personality Traits: Also known as the Five Factor Model, this theory identifies five primary dimensions of personality: Openness (creativity and curiosity), Conscientiousness (organization and responsibility), Extraversion (sociability and assertiveness), Agreeableness (cooperativeness and compassion), and Neuroticism (tendency towards emotional instability and anxiety).
Myers Briggs Type Indicator: Based on Carl Jung’s theory of psychological types, the MBTI features 16 distinct personality types based on four dichotomies: Extraversion vs. Introversion, Sensing vs. Intuition, Thinking vs. Feeling, and Judging vs. Perceiving.

Trait theory often serves as the basis of personality assessments, which are widely used in various settings such as career counseling, team-building, and personal development. These tools can be helpful for enhancing self-awareness and giving you new ways to describe and understand your personality.

Psychoanalytic theories

Psychoanalytic and psychodynamic theories view personality as linked to life experiences and behavioral patterns. Internal conflict and resolution are often connected in psychoanalysis. Those who subscribe to the psychoanalytic theories of personality may view one's actions as indicative of their personality. For example, if a person throws away the roses that their partner bought for them, a witness may believe that person is unkind and not a healthy partner. The events which occur in childhood may be valued in psychoanalytic theories of personality emphasize one’s childhood experiences in the development of personality. This may include factors such as attachment style, learned behavior, societal expectations, and biological urges.

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Theory of personality

The social cognitive theory of personality places a central focus on the views and expectations of individuals about the world in which they live. This approach examines how individuals cognitively process, judge, and make decisions and emphasizes how personality may be shaped by an individual’s culture and environment. For example, a person who grew up in a Western culture may value individualism, while a person from an Eastern culture may prioritize collectivism. In this way, the social cognitive theory considers some facets of social psychology.

Humanistic theories

Humanistic theories of personality focus on the potential for self-growth and self-actualization within individuals. These theories emerged as a reaction to the deterministic nature of psychoanalytic and behaviorist theories, emphasizing conscious free will, personal growth, and the concept of the 'self'. For example, consider a person who feels unfulfilled in their job and has low self-esteem. From a humanistic perspective, they might be seen as not having achieved their full potential or self-actualization. A humanistic therapist would focus on helping them develop a self-concept that aligns with their true feelings and desires, encouraging them to explore and realize their own potential. This could lead them to pursue paths more in tune with their genuine interests, fostering personal growth and a greater sense of well-being.

Personality disorders and signs of behavior

Personality disorders are a type of mental health condition where a person's way of thinking, feeling, and behaving differs significantly from the cultural norms, leading to distress or problems in daily life. These disorders usually begin in the teenage years or early adulthood and are different from mental illnesses in that they represent enduring patterns of behavior and inner experience that are consistent over time and across situations.

Unlike some mental illnesses which can be episodic or situational, personality disorders are characterized by stable, long-lasting patterns that are deeply ingrained in an individual’s personality. Those with a personality disorder often have a hard time dealing with others and handling everyday stresses, problems, and social interaction. With treatment, however, individuals with personality disorders are often able to achieve stable, fulfilling lives.

Getting diagnosed by psychologists focused on personality psychology

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders recognizes a number of personality disorders. Among the most common are:

Antisocial Personality Disorder: Characterized by a disregard for and violation of the rights of others, often displaying deceitful, manipulative, or criminal behavior without remorse.
Borderline Personality Disorder: Marked by unstable moods, behavior, and relationships, with intense fear of abandonment and difficulty in managing emotions.
Histrionic Personality Disorder: Involves excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior, including a need for approval and discomfort when not the center of attention.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others, often hiding a fragile self-esteem.

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Counseling for personality and mental health

No matter who you are, where you come from, or your story, you may face a time in your life when you believe counseling could be beneficial. Therapy can be utilized to understand personality, urges, and desires further. Some individuals live with personality disorders, which can make understanding personality challenging. In these cases, a professional may help you learn more about yourself, what you believe, and how to connect with yourself individually.

For those who face barriers to treatment, such as distance, cost, or availability, you can also find support for personality online. Online counseling is often more affordable than in-person treatment and can be done over the phone, via video, or through live chat sessions with a licensed therapist. In addition, studies show that internet-based therapy is highly effective in treating personality disorders and other mental health conditions.

If you're interested in trying an internet-based treatment modality, consider a platform like BetterHelp, which allows you to get started on a match-based system to find a counselor that works for you.

Takeaway

Personality can be a complex topic, and psychology has many personality theories and perspectives. If you hope to learn more about personality or understand distressing mental health symptoms, consider reaching out to a therapist to gain further insight and discuss the ins and outs of your human experience.

Frequently asked questions

Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.

What is the definition of psychology of personality?

The psychology of personality is a subfield within psychology that focuses on understanding and studying the unique patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make up an individual's personality. It aims to uncover the underlying factors that shape and influence human personality development and why people behave and think the way they do, and how these traits remain relatively stable over time.

This area of study explores various theories and approaches to characterize and explain personality traits, differences, and development. It delves into topics such as the nature vs. nurture debate, psychodynamic theories, the role of genetics and environment, the assessment and measurement of personality traits, and how personality impacts different aspects of life, including relationships, work, and mental health. In essence, the psychology of personality seeks to unravel the complexities of human individuality, shedding light on what makes each person unique.

What are the 4 types of theories from psychologists?

In psychology, there are several different theories and models that attempt to classify and describe personality. One theory uses the widely popular “big five” personality traits of openness, extroversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, and conscientiousness to categorize individuals into four personality types. Within this theory, a person’s personality type may be considered one of the following:

Average: the most common type of personality, individuals are low in openness and higher in neuroticism and extroversion.
Reserved: Introverted, agreeable, and conscientious, these individuals are emotionally stable yet not open or neurotic.
Role Models: Leaders with low levels of neuroticism, highly extroverted, concientious, open, and agreeable.
Self-centered: Individuals who are high in extroversion, but low in openness, agreeability, and conscientiousness.

There are many personality tests available and each of these tests may catagorize individuals in different ways. However, an individual’s personality may vary depending on the situation and time in their life.

What is the importance of personality psychology?

Personality psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on understanding and explaining individual differences in behavior, thoughts, and feelings. It plays a crucial role in various aspects of psychology, research, and real-world applications due to its significance in understanding human behavior and enhancing personal and interpersonal well-being. Here are some key reasons why personality psychology is important:

Self-Understanding and Self-Development: Personality psychology helps individuals gain insights into their own behavior, tendencies, and preferences. By understanding their own personality traits and characteristics, individuals can make informed decisions about their careers, relationships, and personal growth.
Interpersonal Relationships: Knowledge of personality traits can aid in understanding the dynamics of relationships. It helps people navigate interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and romantic partners more effectively by recognizing and appreciating each other's unique traits.
Career Choices and Job Satisfaction: Personality traits can influence career choices and job satisfaction. Certain personalities are better suited for specific professions and work environments. Understanding one's personality can guide individuals toward careers that align with their strengths and preferences.
Clinical Psychology and Mental Health: Personality traits can provide insights into an individual's vulnerability to certain psychological or mental disorders. Understanding personality can be crucial in diagnosing and developing effective treatment strategies for disorders found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), including, borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.
Predicting Behavior and Outcomes: Personality traits are often predictive of future behavior and outcomes. For instance, conscientious individuals may be more likely to succeed academically or in their careers due to their disciplined and organized nature.
Conflict Resolution: In both personal and professional contexts, understanding personality differences can facilitate effective conflict resolution. Recognizing that people have different ways of thinking and approaching situations can lead to more productive discussions and solutions.
Psychological Research: Personality and social psychology contributes to the broader field of psychological research by providing insights into how individual differences impact various aspects of human behavior and cognition. This knowledge, studied by personality psychologists, helps advance our understanding of human nature and various behavioral theories.
Personality Development and Change: A healthy personality develops, is not fixed, and can change over time due to life experiences and personal growth. Understanding how personality evolves can contribute to interventions aimed at positive change.

Personality psychology contributes to a deeper understanding of what makes each individual unique and how these unique traits influence behavior, cognition, and emotions. This understanding has broad applications in personal development, education, mental health, relationships, and many other areas of life.

What is an example of personality characteristics and personality traits?

Let's consider two individuals, Alex and Emily, and examine how their different levels of extroversion and introversion might affect their behavior in social situations.

Alex is a highly extroverted individual. He thrives in social settings, enjoys meeting new people, and is often the life of the party. Alex is energized by social interactions, and he tends to be talkative, outgoing, and enthusiastic. He's the type of person who enjoys large gatherings, networking events, and group activities.

Emily, on the other hand, is more introverted. She prefers smaller, intimate gatherings and values deep one-on-one conversations. Emily finds social interactions draining, and she needs alone time to recharge her energy. She's thoughtful, reflective, and observant.

In a social setting, such as a party:

Alex: Alex would likely be in his element, mingling with different groups of people, telling stories, and energizing the atmosphere. He might be the one initiating conversations and suggesting activities to keep the party going.

Emily: Emily might find the party a bit overwhelming due to the large number of people and the constant social interactions. She might prefer to have deeper conversations with a few people she knows well or engage in quieter activities. She might take breaks to step away and recharge in a quieter space.

This example illustrates how individual differences in extroversion and introversion can shape how people approach social situations. It's important to note that personality traits exist on a spectrum, and individuals may exhibit different levels of a trait depending on the context and their personal preferences. The interplay of various personality traits creates the rich tapestry of human behavior and interactions.

What is the best definition of psychology related to mental health and behavior?

Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of the mind, behavior, and mental processes. It involves exploring and understanding the complexities of human thoughts, emotions, actions, and interactions, as well as investigating the underlying cognitive, emotional, and neurological mechanisms that drive these behaviors. Psychology seeks to uncover the principles that govern human behavior and mental experiences through observation, experimentation, analysis, and interpretation of information. It encompasses various subfields and approaches that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of human nature and behavior.

What is the most important thing in personality?

Understanding that personality is defining personality is complex. Each personality is multifaceted, encompassing a combination of traits, characteristics, behaviors, thoughts, emotions, and tendencies that define an individual. It's not solely determined by one factor but rather a dynamic interplay of various elements. This means that we cannot determine who a person is or how they will act based on personality alone.

What is the importance of personality psychology in education?

Personality psychology plays a significant role in education as it helps educators, students, and other stakeholders understand and navigate the complexities of individual differences in learning, behavior, and development. Here are several reasons why personality psychology is important in education:

Tailored Instruction: Personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion, learning styles, and cognitive preferences, can influence how students best engage with and process information. By understanding students' personalities, educators can adapt their teaching methods to match individual needs, making learning more effective and enjoyable.
Student Motivation: Personality traits like self-efficacy, motivation, and goal orientation are closely tied to academic achievement. Educators who understand students' personalities can design learning experiences that tap into their intrinsic motivation, enhancing their willingness to participate actively and excel in their studies.
Behavior Management: Personality traits can affect how students interact with peers, teachers, and the learning environment. By recognizing and addressing behavioral tendencies, educators can implement strategies to foster positive behavior and address potential challenges in the classroom.
Career and Vocational Guidance: Personality assessments, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five personality traits, can provide insights into students' interests, strengths, and preferred working styles. This information can guide career counseling and help students make informed decisions about their future educational and vocational paths.
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Personality psychology contributes to understanding emotions, empathy, and interpersonal skills. SEL programs can be designed to enhance students' emotional intelligence, which in turn can positively impact their relationships, self-awareness, and overall well-being.
Coping Strategies and Resilience: Personality traits are linked to how individuals cope with stress, setbacks, and challenges. In education, promoting resilience and teaching effective coping strategies based on students' personalities can help them navigate academic and personal hurdles more effectively.
Effective Communication: Educators who understand different personality types can communicate more effectively with students, parents, and colleagues. Tailoring communication styles to individual preferences enhances understanding and collaboration.
Inclusive Education: Recognizing and valuing diverse personalities contributes to creating an inclusive learning environment where students' unique strengths and perspectives are celebrated. This can foster a sense of belonging and promote positive attitudes toward differences.
Conflict Resolution: Understanding personality dynamics can help educators mediate conflicts and disagreements among students. By addressing underlying personality-related factors, educators can work toward resolving issues in a more constructive manner.
Long-Term Development: Education is not just about academic learning; it also encompasses personal growth and character development. Personality psychology can guide educators in nurturing qualities like empathy, resilience, curiosity, and critical thinking that contribute to students' holistic development.

Incorporating personality psychology into education requires a balanced approach, as individual personalities are complex and multifaceted. It's important for educators to use personality assessments and insights responsibly, respecting students' discretion and ensuring that findings are used to support learning and growth rather than to label or stereotype individuals.

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