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Personality Intro

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Introduction to Personality Paper
Personality separates individuals in a form far more exclusive than any other form. People may share similar skin, hair, eye color, height and weight, ethnicity, and religious beliefs but no two people possess the same personality traits. Personality, stated by Feist & Feist (2009), has no single definition but is a pattern of permanent traits and unique characteristics offering individuality, and consistency to an individual’s behavior. This research paper explores personality theory, and addresses the definition of personality, examines theoretical approaches, and analyzes factors that may influence an individual’s personality development.
Definition of Personality
Feist & Feist (2009), explain that personality stems from the Latin word persona, which references a theatrical mask Roman actors in Greek dramas wore. These masks or personas were wore as a projection of a role or replicate a different character. The definition of personality today is quite different than that of Roman and Greek times and is mostly based on observable behavior described by characteristics, and traits. Traits equate from an individual’s behavioral consistencies, and characteristics demonstrate one’s unique attributes such as physical aspects, intellect, temperament, and wit. Traits also offer exclusive characteristics, which provide a person individuality, and stability to his or her behavior. According to Feist & Feist (2009, p. 4), personality is best defined as “a pattern of relatively permanent traits and unique characteristics that give both consistency and individuality to a person’s behavior.” Although this may be a modern day definition, several theorists offer a definition slightly different and suggest that it can change because of a theorist’s world views or experiences.
Theoretical Approaches
Personality within the field of psychology

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