Personality Case Study Essay

Personality brush aside be defined as the characteristic ways of intending, feeling and acting that require a person an somebody (Fletcher & Garton, 2007). There argon a sum of different character theories that aim to explain an individuals genius, much(prenominal) as the Learning possible action studied by B. F mule driver and the Trait surmisal studied by Cost and McCrae. By examining these constitution theories in relation to a particular vitrine study, it is possible to project how an individuals genius is influenced and how it develops.An example of a constitution slip-up study is that of Kate, a 20 year old university student. She is described as kind, caring and loyal and prefers watching movies and reading rather than expiry come on to a party. Kate deeds hard studying psychology at university and volunteers to facilitate children with autism. Kate has a strong relationship with her family and isnt expected to contribute to family line expenses. By examini ng the case study of Kate through the Learning and Trait nature theories, it is possible to have a greater understanding of Kates personality characteristics.The Learning surmise of personality is one theory that can be utilise to examine an individuals personality. One of the most important theorists in this atomic number 18a was B. F muleteer who believed deportment people think reflects personality is simply behaviour that has been learnt from past experiences with the world (Fletcher & Garton, 2007). The theorists of the learning theory basically believe that if a persons behaviour is positively rewarded, they are more believably to repeat the action. However, if their behaviour was punished, it is less likely to happen again.This theory has been criticised for creation too simplistic by not taking into account a persons genetics and factors another(prenominal) than a persons environment (such as thought processes, beliefs and motivation) that can influence their perso nality. Another argument is that personality consist of more than in force(p) behaviour. However, the learning theory is still a very influential personality theory and Skinners findings are still widely use as the basis for behaviour modification techniques. In relation to the case study of Kate, Skinner would argue that Kates personality and behaviour is a result of both reward and punishment as a child.For example, she works hard in her studies to achieve high results. It is possible that when she was younger, Kates parents rewarded her for achieving hygienic at school or punished her for receiving a bad result. Skinner would argue that Kate demonstrates a solid work ethic because she was rewarded for similar behaviour earlier in her life. Another theory of personality that is commonly used is the Trait theory, studied by Costa and McCrae. This theory suggests there a five main dimensions of personality. These are extraversion, neuroticism, openness to experience, agreeableness and conscientiousness.An individuals personality is a combination of high and low ratings in individually of these dimensions. This theory claims that all these personality traits are stable and enduring. Some criticisms are that this theory isnt specific enough as to how much of an individuals personality is a result of genetics or environment. Also, this theory does consider unconscious thoughts and processes that may influence a persons behaviour. The Trait theory is however a widely accepted personality theory which has been the basis for many studies and research. Costa and McCraes trait theory can be applied to the case study of Kate.She is described as being kind, caring and loyal. Kate also prefers watching movies and reading rather than going out. In terms of the Trait theory, Kate would be described as being introverted, conscientious, hard-working and well organised. The Trait Theory and the Learning theory are cardinal very different understandings of personality, bot h with their own contributions and limitations, but both are relevant and useful when trying to understand an individuals personality. all(prenominal) theory is applicable to the case study of Kate in attempting to examine her personality type.