Trait Theories of Personality
Accordingly, to Psychologist Gordon Allport (1897-1967) developed the Traits Theory in which he believed that personality is a combination of characteristics and qualities. These traits are influenced by the societal experiences lived throughout the course of life he stressed on the concept of self-distinctiveness and unique of each individual. Allport emphasized the interaction of personality with the societal influences and circumstances (Samuel & Ellen Green Wood, 1997, p450). Allport’s theory of traits stresses the differences between the individuals.
Gordon Allport theorized that traits are of three types: cardinal, central, and secondary traits. The cardinal traits are persistent, shape the individual’s behavior and attitude, and therefore determine his /her personality. Central traits are general traits that are common in so many people. Secondary traits are less pervasive, and ineffective in shaping the personality. However, they are seeing in certain circumstances.
In another hands, the psychologist Hans Eysenk proposed that personality traits are of three types: antisocial, introversion-extroversion and emotionally stable. Meanwhile, the psychologist Lewis Goldberg developed a new theory in which he proposed a five-dimension personality model known as the Big Five. The Big Five theory includes the important and crucial traits of the personality. Openness to experience, versus Reticence. Conscientiousness versus, Disorganized and Impulsive. “Extroversion versus Reserved”.
In addition, Freudian psychodynamic theory hypnotized that an individual’s behavior and personality in adulthood determined by the age of five years and the influenced by the early childhood experiences embedded in the subconscious.
Contrary to Freud’s theory, Erik Erikson who worked with Freud’s patients developed a new