TRAIT THEORY BY HANS EYSENCK

Question 1

trait theory of personality

Answer 1

Most influential in describing personality types

Enduring psychological characteristics

Secondary traits – very specific

Cardinal traits – more general

Two main functions: identify and predict behaviour

Question 2

Hans Eysenck

Answer 2

His theories led him to make an enormous number of predictions about how various personality types would behave in a wide range of environments.

Believed that personality can be measured/placed on three personality dimensions:

Personality dimensions:
Extraversion – Introversion
Neuroticism – Stability
Psychoticism – normality

Question 3

the big 5 trait theory

Answer 3

openness 
conscientiousness 
extraversion 
agreeableness 
neuroticism

Question 4

openness

Answer 4

Fantasy, aesthetics, feelings, actions, ideas, values.

Common statements from people who display ‘openness.’

I have a vivid imagination.
I have vivid ideas.
I spend time reflecting on things.
I use difficult words.

Question 5

conscientiousness

Answer 5

Competence, order, dutifulness, achievement striving, deliberation, self-discipline.

Common statements from people who demonstrate ‘conscientiousness.’

I am always prepared.
I am exacting in my work.
I follow a schedule.
I like order.
I pay attention to details.

Question 6

extraversion

Answer 6

Warmth, gregariousness, assertiveness, activity, excitement seeking, positive emotions.

Common statements from people who demonstrate ‘extraversion.’

I don’t mind being the centre of attention.
I feel comfortable around people.
I start conversations.
I love to talk.

Question 7

agreeableness

Answer 7

Trust, straightforwardness, selflessness, compliance, modesty, tender-mindedness.

Common statements from people who demonstrate ‘agreeableness.’

I am interested in people.
I have a soft heart.
I take time out for my friends.
I make others feel at ease.
I feel others emotions.

Question 8

neuroticism

Answer 8

Anxiety, hostility, depression, self-consciousness, impulsiveness, vulnerability.

Common statements from people who demonstrate ‘neuroticism.’

I am easily disturbed.
I change my mood a lot. 
I get irritated easily. 
I get stressed out easily.
I have frequent mood swings. 
I worry about things.

Question 9

strengths

Answer 9

Able to make predictions about behaviour

Able to identify behaviour easier

Question 10

weaknesses

Answer 10

Too fixed
Doesn’t explain why personalities change
Suggests personality is ‘set’ at birth
Too subjective – depends on ‘point of view’ 
Too limited