Explaining Personality: Apply It

  • Describe the behavioral perspective on personality
  • Describe the social-cognitive perspectives on personality
  • Explain Abraham Maslow and Carl Roger’s contributions to personality development
  • Discuss biological influences on personality
  • Discuss the impact of culture on personality

In this section, we explored different theories and models that explain personality development, including behavioral approaches, social cognitive approaches, humanistic approaches, biological approaches, and cultural understandings of personality.

In this activity, we’ll take a look at how each of these approaches might explain the development of a single individual. You can choose to dig deeper into the personality of either:

  • Walter White, the main character of the show Breaking Bad, or
  • Elsa, the Disney queen from the movie Frozen.
If you haven’t seen Breaking Bad, or it’s been a while, view this brief synopsis of the series to get a feel for the character.
OR

Watch this video for a recap of the movie Frozen.

Choose A Character

Take a moment to think about your own personality. How would the behaviors, social-cognitive, humanistic, biological, and cultural approaches explain your own set of characteristics and personality development over time? Which perspective do you think provides the best explanation for personality development? Why?