01:830:101 Lecture Notes - Lecture 18: Twin, Thematic Apperception Test, Conscientiousness

• School: Rutgers University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: 01:830:101
• Professor: Dr.John Ackroff

Document Summary

Nomothetic approach- looking for broad, general principles. Self = traits + habits + skills + interests. We have consistent characteristics in our behavior. But we also behave differently at different times, and in different situations. Openness to experience- the tendency to enjoy new intellectual experiences and new ideas. Conscientiousness- tendency to show self-discipline, to be dutiful, and to strive for achievement and competence. Extraversion- tendency to seek stimulation and to enjoy the company of other people. Agreeableness- tendency to be compassionate toward others. Neuroticism- tendency to experience unpleasant emotions frequently. Higher correlation between identical vs fraternal twins. Personality changes throughout life, but the change is negatively accelerated. Middle-aged people tend to be more conscientious than teenagers. Older people tend to be less neurotic. Self-ratings reflect person"s position within the culture. Need behavioral measurements to find cultural differences. Standardized tests- administered according to rules that specify how to interpret the results. Need to know about distributions of scores.