Question Preface: A personality theory is a theory that attempts to describe and

Question

Question Preface: A personality theory is a theory that attempts to describe and explain similarities and differences in people’s patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior. Personality theories can be roughly grouped under four basic perspectives: psychoanalytic, humanistic, social cognitive and trait.

Primary Post: In your own words, discuss the personality theory you find most appealing and why. In your answer, be sure to identify the theorist(s) and explain and relevant concepts that are associated with the theory as well as any criticisms.

Secondary Post: In your own words, describe a “possible self” that is part of your self-concept, and explain how it has affected your own behavior.

Explanation / Answer

Sigmund Freud was of the view that a the personality of an individual is made up of three parts, the Id, Ego and the Superego. Id is the instinctual part that works on the pleasure principle by deriving instant pleasure. The ego operates on the Reality Principle by acting according to accepted norms and reality. The Super Ego is concerned with moral values and conscience.

The different periods of development of personality in freud's psychoanalytic theory is known as the psychosexual stages of development. The theory describes the psychological and sexual elements of development of personality in a child. The stages are oral, anal, phallic, latency and genital stage.

The psychoanalytic theory is so important because it comprehensively explains personality and places importance on the early development of person, that is the childhood experiences. It places value on the unconscious level, which has a great influence on ones personality and life, so much so that the unconscious may single handedly define a persons personality. Also, the emphasis on aggressive and sexual drives give us an understanding of the various conflicts and motivation of human behavior.

My possible self that is part of my self concept is being able to completely fulfill my potential in my career and be content with what i have got. This possible self will one in which i am a successful researcher in my field and has a fulfilling relationship with my partner. This possible self will also be content and happy with ongoing of life career and relationship.

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