Psychological Explanations - Eysenck's Theory Flashcards
What is Eysenck’s personality theory bases on?
the idea that character traits tend to cluster along three dimensions
Traits of extravert
sociable
talkative
traits of introverts
controlled
reserved
traits of neuroticism
aggressive
restless
traits of stable
easygoing
calm
What did Eysenck suggest that each trait has?
a biological basis
mainly innate
extraversion - biological basis
determined by arousal in nervous system
extraverted = under aroused
neuroticism - biological basis
determined by the level of stability in the sympathetic nervous system
psychoticism - biological basis
related to higher levels of testosterone
define extraverts
seeks more arousal so are more likely to engage in dangerous activities
define neuroticism
neurotics
are unstable and therefore prone to over-react in some situations
define pyschotisicm
individuals who lack empathy
link to crime
