Eysnecks personality theory

Question 1

what was the three traits in eysnecks theory?

Answer 1

extraversion
neuroticism
psychoticism

Question 2

what is extraversion?

Answer 2

sociable, lively and sensation seeking

Question 3

Brain - extraversion

Answer 3

extroverts have a low level of arousal in their cerebral cortex (as stimuli is restricted by RAS) and therefore need
more stimulation from their environment, leading to risky & anti-social behaviour.

Question 4

what is neuroticism?

Answer 4

anxious & react very strongly to aversive stimuli.

Question 5

brain - neuroticism

Answer 5

the ANS becomes over-aroused and affects the limbic system, causing violent & unstable behaviour.

Question 6

what is psychoticism?

Answer 6

aggressive & egocentric.

Question 7

brain - psychoticism

Answer 7

due to an excess of dopaminergic neurons, which causes an overproduction of dopamine and leads to more aggressive behaviour.

Question 8

what did Eysenck believe?

Answer 8

believed that criminality develops mainly due to genetics but early
socialisation and difficulties in conditioning can also play a part.

Question 9

Criticisms

Answer 9

1. Ignores individual differences- saying criminals all share same personality
2. Too deterministic as it ignores free will.
3. It does not inform us why individuals commit criminal acts.