*Psychological Explanations:Eysenck's Theory Flashcards
Who was an important figure in personality and intelligence research?
Eysenck
Eysenck’s work laid the foundation for theories linking personality traits to criminal behavior.
What are the two original dimensions of behavior identified by Eysenck?
Introversion-extraversion (E) and neuroticism-stability (N)
These dimensions combine to form a variety of personality traits.
What third dimension was later added to Eysenck’s theory?
Psychoticism-sociability (P)
This dimension further expands the understanding of personality traits.
According to Eysenck, what is the origin of our personality traits?
Biological
Personality traits are believed to show through the type of nervous system inherited.
What characterizes an extravert according to Eysenck’s theory?
Underactive nervous system, seeks excitement, engages in risk-taking
Extraverts are less likely to learn from mistakes.
What are the traits of a neurotic individual?
High reactivity, quick fight or flight response, nervous, jumpy, over anxious
Neurotic individuals are difficult to predict.
What characteristics define a psychotic individual?
Higher testosterone levels, unemotional, prone to aggression
Psychotic traits can lead to antisocial behavior.
What is the criminal personality according to Eysenck?
Neurotic-Extravert-Psychotic
This combination results in instability, risk-seeking behavior, and aggression.
How does Eysenck’s theory link personality to offending behavior?
Through socialization processes
Offending is seen as developmentally immature and selfish.
What is a key behavioral trait of offenders according to Eysenck?
Impatience
Offenders often cannot wait for gratification.
What does socialization teach children according to Eysenck?
How to wait and be more sociable
This process is crucial for developing impulse control.
What is the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ)?
A psychological test measuring E, N, and P dimensions
It helps determine an individual’s personality type.
What did Eysenck’s research find regarding prisoner EPQ scores?
Prisoners scored higher on E, N, and P than control samples
This finding was consistent across all age groups.
What did Farrington et al’s meta-analysis reveal about offenders’ scores?
High on P, but not on E or N
This inconsistency challenges the physiological basis of Eysenck’s theory.
What limitation did Moffitt identify regarding personality and criminality?
It’s too simplistic; personality can’t explain criminality alone
Persistent offending is influenced by both personality traits and environmental reactions.
