Personality

Question 1

Define personality

Answer 1

The characteristics which make a person unique (often referred to as personality traits)

Question 2

Describe trait theory

Answer 2

Personality is generic and its consisting characteristics are innate because we are born with our personalities so they are predictable and stable

Question 3

What are the two versions of trait theory?

Answer 3

Eysenck’s model and the narrow band approach

Question 4

Describe Eysenck’s model

Answer 4

• A cross diagram with introvert and extrovert at the top and bottom, with stable and neurotic left and right
• Introvert (RAS is sensitive to external stimulation so they don’t need a lot of external stimulation or excitement)
• Extrovert (RAS inhibits effects of external stimulation so they seek excitement as they have low internal arousal)

Question 5

What is the RAS?

Answer 5

Reticular Activating System

Question 6

Describe the narrow band approach

Answer 6

Type A: Intolerant, impatient, prone to stress, competitive

Type B: tolerant, patient, less prone to stress, not competitive

Question 7

Describe Bandura’s social learning theory

Answer 7

Our personality is formed by observing and copying other’s behaviour so learners are more likely to copy the behaviour of people deemed to be ‘significant others’

Question 8

Describe interactionist theory

Answer 8

Personality is a combination of characteristics and environmental influences
Behaviour is can change so it is not predictable

Question 9

What is the equation of the interactionist theory?

Answer 9

B = f(PxE)
Behaviour = the function of (personality x environment)

Question 10

Describe Hollander’s theory of personality

Answer 10

Personality has three layers:

• Psychological core: doesn’t change
• Typical responses: what you normally do in familiar situations (predictable)
• Role related behaviour: most effected by the environment (temperament changes when agitated)