PSY 231W - Theories of Personality

Credits: 3

Examines theories of personality development from a psychodynamic, social learning and humanistic perspective. Critiques individual theories regarding personality development, abnormality, psychotherapy, research, and the concept of humanity.

Prerequisite(s): PSY 211W with grade of "C" or better
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Social Science
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives

Identify and describe the underlying assumptions and main features of the major personality theories.
1. Identify the main features of each of the major personality theories and distinguish between them.
  1. psychoanalytic
  2. behavioral
  3. social cognitive
  4. humanistic
  5. physiological
2. Explore similarities and differences of theories of personality, and demonstrate understanding in writing and in class discussions.
3. Apply the knowledge of theories of personality to various experiential exercises and case study examples in verbal and/or written form.
Identify and describe how relevant theorists' personal experiences influened the development of their theories.
1. Identify and describe the relevant biographical history of the major theorists, among those:
  1. Freud
  2. Jung
  3. Horney
  4. Skinner
  5. Bandura
  6. Rogers
  7. Maslow
2. Demonstrate an understanding of how the historical setting and values of the time influenced the theory’s formation.
3. Analyze the relationship between the theorists’ background and personal experiences and that theorist’s personality theory.
Evaluate and critique each of the personality theories presented in the class.
1. Examine the empirical evidence that supports or fails to support the theories presented during the course.
2. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the theories presented in class.
3. Learn appropriate methods for effective questioning of assumptions, points of view, and theories.
4. Critique theories of personality effectively in writing.