Theories of Personality

PSYCH 3530: Theories of Personality

This course is designed to serve as an introduction to personality theory and the associated empirical research in the field of personality psychology. Personality psychology is at the crossroads of most sub-disciplines within psychology, including clinical, social, industrial-organizational, cognitive, and biological. We will cover the major theories of personality (e.g., psychodynamic, trait, behavioral/social learning, humanistic). For each of the theories, we will cover any associated assessment methodologies and the relevant research findings where applicable.
Prereq: 1100 or 1100H.
Credit Hours
3

Sample Topics:

  • Research Methods
  • Personality Tests
  • Traits vs. Situations
  • Personality in Daily Life
  • Using Traits
  • Personality Development
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Genetics & Evolution
  • Basis of Psychoanalysis & Neo-Freudians
  • Humanistic & Positive Psychology
  • Culture & Personality
  • Behaviorism & Social Learning
  • Thoughts, Emotion, Motivation
  • The Self & Relations
  • Personality Disorders & the "Healthy" Personality

Meets the following Psychology Major Goals:

Knowledge Base in Psychology

  • Describe key concepts, principles, & overarching themes in psychology
  • Develop working knowledge of psychology's content domains
  • Describe applications of psychology

Scientific Inquiry & Critical Thinking

  • Use scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena
  • Demonstrate psychology information literacy
  • Engage in innovative & integrative thinking & problem solving
  • Interpret, design, & conduct basic psychological research
  • Incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific inquiry

Ethical & Social Responsibility in a Diverse World

  • Apply ethical standards to evaluate psychological science & practice
  • Build & enhance personal relationships

Communication

  • Demonstrate effective writing for different purposes

Professional Development

  • Exhibit self-efficacy & self-regulation

To find course availability and times, please visit the Ohio State Course Catalog and Master Schedule.