Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description

Personality Theories

Main Study Course Information

Course Code
VPUPK_091
Branch of Science
Psychology; Psychology of Personality
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Medical Services
LQF
Level 6
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time

Study Course Implementer

Course Supervisor
Structure Unit Manager
Structural Unit
Department of Health Psychology and Paedagogy
Contacts

Riga, 16 Dzirciema Street, vppk@rsu.lv, +37167061587

About Study Course

Objective

The aim of the study course "Personality Theories" is to develop students' knowledge and understanding of classical and modern personality theories, their historical development, theoretical principles and approaches to the study of personality. To promote the ability to compare and critically evaluate different personality theories and to use their concepts in the analysis of personality, behavior and individual differences.

Preliminary Knowledge

Not required.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

1.Describe the concept of personality, the historical development of personality theories and the main methods of personality research.

Individual work and tests

Final test Active participation in the study process

2.Describe the biological, psychodynamic, humanistic and existential, cognitive and socio-cognitive, and trait approaches to personality explanation.

Individual work and tests

Final test Active participation in the study process

3.Explain the key concepts, constructs, and assumptions of major personality theories about personality structure, development, and behavior.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis Final test

4.Describe the relationship between individual differences in personality and personality traits and psychological health and functioning.

Individual work and tests

Final test

5.Explain the strengths, limitations, criticisms and contemporary developments of the major theories of personality.

Individual work and tests

Final test Individual work - personality analysis

Skills

1.Compares different personality theories, identifying their common and different assumptions about personality, its development and behaviour.

Individual work and tests

Active participation in the study process Final test Individual work - personality analysis

2.Analyze personality expression and behavior using concepts and constructs from various personality theories.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis

3.Apply the findings of personality theories to explain and interpret specific personality and behavioral situations.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis Final test

4.Evaluate the explanatory possibilities and limitations of different theoretical approaches in the analysis of a specific personality.

Individual work and tests

Active participation in the study process Individual work - personality analysis

5.Use professional and scientific literature in the formation of theoretically grounded personality analysis and argumentation.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis

Competences

1.Integrate the findings of different personality theories to form a theoretically grounded and multi-perspective analysis of personality.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis

2.Critically evaluates the applicability of personality theories in explaining personality and behaviour, arguing for the chosen theoretical perspective.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis

3.Formulate and justify conclusions about personality and its manifestations using academically correct argumentation and professional terminology.

Individual work and tests

Individual work - personality analysis

Assessment

Individual work

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Active participation in the study process

-
-

To independently study the content of the video lecture and additional materials indicated in the study course, to actively participate in classes, discussions and study activities, as well as to provide feedback on the study process at the end of the study course.

2.

Individual work - personality analysis

50.00% from total grade
10 points

Individually choose one character from a film or literary work and perform a personality analysis using the personality theories, concepts and constructs learned in the study course. In the analysis, theoretically interpret the personality traits, behavior and possible explanatory factors of the character, integrating several theoretical perspectives. A detailed description of the task and evaluation criteria is available in E-studies.

Examination

Title
% from total grade
Grade
1.

Final test

50.00% from total grade
10 points

Final test on the entire theoretical content of the study course, including the historical development of personality theories, the main classical and contemporary theoretical approaches, their most important representatives, concepts and constructs, approaches to personality research, as well as the strengths, limitations and application possibilities of theories.

Study Course Theme Plan

FULL-TIME
Part 1
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Introduction to personality theories. Definition of personality and key concepts. Personality research methods.
Description

This topic offers basic knowledge of the definition of personality, key concepts and guiding principles that are essential to the study of personality theories. It also provides an overview of key methods used in personality research, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, as well as methods of analysis and observation.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Biological approaches to personality. Genetics and personality. Brain structures and functions. The role of the nervous system in building personality.
Description

Biological approaches focus on genetic and neurobiological factors that affect personality. The topic includes studies on genetic aspects of inheritance, brain structures and their functions, and the role of the nervous system in building personality. These approaches are analysed against the theories and research of major authors such as Bouchard, Raichle and Eysenck.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Psychodynamic approaches to personality. Freud’s psychodynamic theory. Jung’s analytical psychology. Adler’s individual psychology.
Description

Psychodynamic theories examine a person’s internal conflict, consciousness and unconsciousness relationships, as well as the role of psychological defense mechanisms. Freud, Jung and Adler’s theories are analyzed in terms of how they explain personality structure, development and conflict resolution. This topic also considers how psychodynamic factors shape an individual’s behavior and emotional life.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Psychodynamic approaches to personality. Freud’s psychodynamic theory. Jung’s analytical psychology. Adler’s individual psychology.
Description

Psychodynamic theories examine a person’s internal conflict, consciousness and unconsciousness relationships, as well as the role of psychological defense mechanisms. Freud, Jung and Adler’s theories are analyzed in terms of how they explain personality structure, development and conflict resolution. This topic also considers how psychodynamic factors shape an individual’s behavior and emotional life.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Humanistic approaches to personality. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization. Rogers’s persona-centric theory. May’s and Frankle’s existential theories and free will.
Description

Humanist theories offer a perspective that emphasizes an individual’s self-actualization, free will and inner growth. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization and Rogers’s persona-centered theory are seen as the theoretical foundations that shape the humanist approach to personal development. Existential theories, such as in the works of Rollo May and Viktor Frankl, are analysed in terms of seeking the meaning of human life and the importance of free will.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Cognitive and behavioural approaches to personality. Bandura theory of social learning. Rotter theory of social learning. Kelly’s cognitive structure and its role in personality development.
Description

Cognitive and behavioral theories focus on human behavior and its relationship to cognitive processes. Bandura’s theory of social learning is explored in light of an individual’s interactions with their surroundings, while Rotter’s theory focuses on personal mechanisms of perception, such as expectation and behavioural modelling. George Kelly offers an analysis of cognitive structure and its impact on personality development.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Modern approaches to personality (trait approaches). Big five personality model five Factor theory. Olport disposition theory. Anchored by a two-dimensional and three-deimensional personality model. Ketel’s 16-factor personality model.
Description

Modern personality theories offer quantitative approaches, such as Big five’s personality model, which classifies a person’s personality by five key factors. Personality measurement techniques are looked at to assess and describe personality and its dynamics. These theories are particularly important for understanding personality development and its application in practical life, such as psychology, education and the working environment.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Personality and psychological health. Relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders and diagnostics. Psychological growth and development.
Description

The relationship between personality theories and mental health is being explored by analysing how different personality traits can affect psychological wellbeing or disorders. Eysenck and Cloninger offer different approaches to the relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders diagnosed under DSM-V/SSK-10 and its relationship to psychological growth using the Erikson and Ryff theories will also be looked at.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
Video
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
32 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam
PART-TIME
Part 1
  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Introduction to personality theories. Definition of personality and key concepts. Personality research methods.
Description

This topic offers basic knowledge of the definition of personality, key concepts and guiding principles that are essential to the study of personality theories. It also provides an overview of key methods used in personality research, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, as well as methods of analysis and observation.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Introduction to personality theories. Definition of personality and key concepts. Personality research methods.
Description

This topic offers basic knowledge of the definition of personality, key concepts and guiding principles that are essential to the study of personality theories. It also provides an overview of key methods used in personality research, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, as well as methods of analysis and observation.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Biological approaches to personality. Genetics and personality. Brain structures and functions. The role of the nervous system in building personality.
Description

Biological approaches focus on genetic and neurobiological factors that affect personality. The topic includes studies on genetic aspects of inheritance, brain structures and their functions, and the role of the nervous system in building personality. These approaches are analysed against the theories and research of major authors such as Bouchard, Raichle and Eysenck.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Biological approaches to personality. Genetics and personality. Brain structures and functions. The role of the nervous system in building personality.
Description

Biological approaches focus on genetic and neurobiological factors that affect personality. The topic includes studies on genetic aspects of inheritance, brain structures and their functions, and the role of the nervous system in building personality. These approaches are analysed against the theories and research of major authors such as Bouchard, Raichle and Eysenck.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Psychodynamic approaches to personality. Freud’s psychodynamic theory. Jung’s analytical psychology. Adler’s individual psychology.
Description

Psychodynamic theories examine a person’s internal conflict, consciousness and unconsciousness relationships, as well as the role of psychological defense mechanisms. Freud, Jung and Adler’s theories are analyzed in terms of how they explain personality structure, development and conflict resolution. This topic also considers how psychodynamic factors shape an individual’s behavior and emotional life.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Psychodynamic approaches to personality. Freud’s psychodynamic theory. Jung’s analytical psychology. Adler’s individual psychology.
Description

Psychodynamic theories examine a person’s internal conflict, consciousness and unconsciousness relationships, as well as the role of psychological defense mechanisms. Freud, Jung and Adler’s theories are analyzed in terms of how they explain personality structure, development and conflict resolution. This topic also considers how psychodynamic factors shape an individual’s behavior and emotional life.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Humanistic approaches to personality. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization. Rogers’s persona-centric theory. May’s and Frankle’s existential theories and free will.
Description

Humanist theories offer a perspective that emphasizes an individual’s self-actualization, free will and inner growth. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization and Rogers’s persona-centered theory are seen as the theoretical foundations that shape the humanist approach to personal development. Existential theories, such as in the works of Rollo May and Viktor Frankl, are analysed in terms of seeking the meaning of human life and the importance of free will.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Humanistic approaches to personality. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization. Rogers’s persona-centric theory. May’s and Frankle’s existential theories and free will.
Description

Humanist theories offer a perspective that emphasizes an individual’s self-actualization, free will and inner growth. Maslow’s theory of self-actualization and Rogers’s persona-centered theory are seen as the theoretical foundations that shape the humanist approach to personal development. Existential theories, such as in the works of Rollo May and Viktor Frankl, are analysed in terms of seeking the meaning of human life and the importance of free will.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Cognitive and behavioural approaches to personality. Bandura theory of social learning. Rotter theory of social learning. Kelly’s cognitive structure and its role in personality development.
Description

Cognitive and behavioral theories focus on human behavior and its relationship to cognitive processes. Bandura’s theory of social learning is explored in light of an individual’s interactions with their surroundings, while Rotter’s theory focuses on personal mechanisms of perception, such as expectation and behavioural modelling. George Kelly offers an analysis of cognitive structure and its impact on personality development.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Cognitive and behavioural approaches to personality. Bandura theory of social learning. Rotter theory of social learning. Kelly’s cognitive structure and its role in personality development.
Description

Cognitive and behavioral theories focus on human behavior and its relationship to cognitive processes. Bandura’s theory of social learning is explored in light of an individual’s interactions with their surroundings, while Rotter’s theory focuses on personal mechanisms of perception, such as expectation and behavioural modelling. George Kelly offers an analysis of cognitive structure and its impact on personality development.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Modern approaches to personality (trait approaches). Big five personality model five Factor theory. Olport disposition theory. Anchored by a two-dimensional and three-deimensional personality model. Ketel’s 16-factor personality model.
Description

Modern personality theories offer quantitative approaches, such as Big five’s personality model, which classifies a person’s personality by five key factors. Personality measurement techniques are looked at to assess and describe personality and its dynamics. These theories are particularly important for understanding personality development and its application in practical life, such as psychology, education and the working environment.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Modern approaches to personality (trait approaches). Big five personality model five Factor theory. Olport disposition theory. Anchored by a two-dimensional and three-deimensional personality model. Ketel’s 16-factor personality model.
Description

Modern personality theories offer quantitative approaches, such as Big five’s personality model, which classifies a person’s personality by five key factors. Personality measurement techniques are looked at to assess and describe personality and its dynamics. These theories are particularly important for understanding personality development and its application in practical life, such as psychology, education and the working environment.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Personality and psychological health. Relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders and diagnostics. Psychological growth and development.
Description

The relationship between personality theories and mental health is being explored by analysing how different personality traits can affect psychological wellbeing or disorders. Eysenck and Cloninger offer different approaches to the relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders diagnosed under DSM-V/SSK-10 and its relationship to psychological growth using the Erikson and Ryff theories will also be looked at.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Personality and psychological health. Relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders and diagnostics. Psychological growth and development.
Description

The relationship between personality theories and mental health is being explored by analysing how different personality traits can affect psychological wellbeing or disorders. Eysenck and Cloninger offer different approaches to the relationship between personality and mental health. Personality disorders diagnosed under DSM-V/SSK-10 and its relationship to psychological growth using the Erikson and Ryff theories will also be looked at.

  1. Lecture

Modality
Location
Contact hours
Off site
E-Studies platform
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

  1. Class/Seminar

Modality
Location
Contact hours
On site
Auditorium
2

Topics

Comparison and criticism of personality theories. Key principles and contradictions of personality theories. The future evolution and challenges of personality theories.
Description

This topic makes a comparison of personality theories by analyzing key approaches and their contradictions. The topic offers a critical assessment of the practical applicability and limitations of different theories in the study of human behavior and development. The future evolution of personality theories is also being considered, examining the latest research and challenges associated with the integration and development of these theories.

Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
32 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam

Bibliography

Required Reading

1.

Stanley Gaines Jr., S. (2020). Personality Psychology: The Basics. RoutledgeSuitable for English stream

2.

Ellis, A., Abrams, M., & Dengelegi Abrams, L. (2008). Personality Theories : Critical Perspectives.SAGE Publications, Incorporated.Suitable for English stream

3.

Reņģe, V. (2000). Psiholoģija. Personības psiholoģija. Lekciju kurss. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.

4.

Reņģe, V. (1999). Psiholoģija. Personības psiholoģiskās teorijas. Lekciju kurss. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.

5.

Karpova, Ā. (1998). Personība. Teorijas un to radītāji. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.

Additional Reading

1.

Allen, B.P. (2005). Personality Theories : Development, Growth, and Diversity. Taylor & Francis Group.Suitable for English stream