SP- Personality

Question 1

Define personality

Answer 1

The underlying stable pyschogical structure which shapes a person’s actions and reactions to the environment

Question 2

What is trait theory

Answer 2

Suggests people are born with specific characteristics or traits determining how they will behave. Innate and enduring.

Question 3

What are the 4 points of Eysenck’s continua of personality

Answer 3

Stable
Unstable
Introvert
Extrovert

Question 4

What system is the introvert/extrovert continuum linked to

Answer 4

Reticular Activating System

Question 5

Give 3 features of an extrovert

Answer 5

RAS under-aroused
Bore quickly
Seeks challenges
Enjoys team games
Performs well under pressure

Question 6

Give 3 features of an introvert

Answer 6

RAS over aroused
Does not need additional stimulation to perform well
Performs best at low levels of arousal
Performs well in individual sports

Question 7

What system is the stable/neurotic continuum linked to

Answer 7

The ANS

Question 8

Give 2 features of a stable person

Answer 8

ANS slow to respond to stressful situations

Lower response to stress

Question 9

Give 2 features of an unstable person

Answer 9

ANS quick to respond to stressful situations

Higher response to stress

Question 10

What is narrow band theory

Answer 10

Compares a type a and b person, showing their ability to cope with stress

Question 11

Give 3 features of a Type A person

Answer 11

Strongly competitive
Fast work pace
Intolerant
High levels of stress
Highly alert

Question 12

Give 3 features of a Type B person

Answer 12

Less competitive
Slower work pace
Tolerant
Low levels of stress
More relaxed

Question 13

Give one criticism of trait theory

Answer 13

poor predictor of behaviour as you dont act the same in each situation
risk of stereotping
Doesn’t take into account the environment/social learning

Question 14

What is personality profiling

Answer 14

Measurement via observation, interview and self-report questionnaires

Question 15

Benefits of using personality profiling

Answer 15

Can test large numbers at once

Questions are standardised so easy interpretation and analysis

Question 16

Drawbacks to personality profiling

Answer 16

Performer may not perform as normal if being observed
Performer may say what they think the observer wants to hear
May not give truthful answers

Question 17

What is social learning theory

Answer 17

Suggests all behaviours are learnt from interaction and experiences in the environment. These behaviours can be changed and adapted to suit the environment

Question 18

Drawbacks to SLT

Answer 18

Doesn’t take into account genetic predispositions

Early learning from parents can affect our characteristics

Question 19

What is the interactionist approach

Answer 19

The core of the personality predisposes them to behave in certain ways, and can be easily affected by the environment