PSYCH 2B03 Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Biker Bar, Caffeine
10 Dec 2013
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Chapter 4 notes the measurement of individual differences. Trait theorists base work on scientific individual measurements of sociability, reliability, dominance, nervousness, cheerfulness, etc. The trait approach based on: empirical research, correlational designs, focuses exclusively on individual differences. Extent of trait in one individual compared to another, ratios. Numerous exceptions despite dominant characteristics: eg. shy with strangers but warm open and friendly with family members. Answer dependent on age and stage in life (personality consistency variance) More consistent = less neurotic, more controlled, more mature, and more positive in their relations with others. Resolution: recognizing that persons and situations do not compete for which one determines behaviour more: interact to produce behaviour together. Arguments from personality psychologists: unfair literature review. Michel"s literature was selective, short, and biased. Rebuttal: paper was short so had to be selective: 0. 40 upper limit: how well personality traits can predict behaviour and how consistent behaviour is from one situation to another.
