Personality

Personality is the consistent pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that a person displays. It differs from a temporary mental state because it appears over a long period and across different situations. Psychology uses it to explain why people in the same circumstances often act in different ways.

Personality research is a branch of psychology. It attempts to measure individual differences, explain their origins (genetic and environmental), and predict future behaviour, such as job performance or social relationships.

Basic Concepts

The term 'trait' refers to a measurable and stable component, such as extraversion or anxiety. The term 'temperament' refers to early-appearing aspects of personality that have a biological basis. 'Character' is often used to refer to moral and value dimensions.

Measurement Approaches

The most widely used model today is the Big Five: openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Other models include Eysenck's framework, which uses three dimensions, and Cattell's model, which distinguishes many traits. Measurement typically relies on self-report questionnaires, which depend on the accuracy of responses.

Competing Perspectives

Trait theories focus on measuring individual differences. Psychodynamic approaches, such as those of Freud, proposed that unconscious mental processes shape personality. Humanistic theories, such as those of Rogers and Maslow, emphasize personal growth and self-actualization. Social-cognitive approaches stress learning, environmental context, and beliefs about one's own capability.

Stability and Influences

Much research shows that personality is relatively stable across adults, though it changes gradually: conscientiousness and agreeableness typically increase with age. Longitudinal studies suggest that both genetics and environment play a role. Cultural differences also influence how traits are expressed and valued.