Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Personality Theories
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
Elīna Akmane
Structure Unit Manager
Kristīne Mārtinsone
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 provide basic knowledge of personality theories and to develop an understanding of classical and contemporary personality theories. The course will explore the historical evolution of personality theories, as well as the contemporary situation and the versatility of theoretical strategies. Students will enrich their knowledge of personality psychology and its theoretical patterns by developing the skills to recognise and assess different approaches in personality research, as well as integrate theoretical knowledge and apply it in the practical context.
Preliminary Knowledge
Not required.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Student: is familiar with key personality theories, their historical evolution and modern trends; knows and understands the basic principles of personality psychology, the specificities of different theoretical approaches and the possibilities for their application in practice; is familiar with classical and modern personality theories, understands their differences, meaning and limitations in the study of human behaviour and personality; knows the different theoretical strategies and how they can be applied in different contexts; is familiar with practical applications through observations and analysis of personality expressions in different living conditions.
Individual work and tests
Final test
Skills
1.Student: can analyse and compare key personality theories by assessing their strengths and weaknesses; know how to explain basic principles of personality psychology and how to link them to specific theoretical approaches; is able to assess the multilateralism of theoretical strategies and justify their application in different contexts; is able to use the acquired knowledge in practice – to make observations and analyse personality expressions in different situations.
Individual work and tests
Active participation in the study process
Competences
1.Student: able to integrate different theories of personality psychology and critically assess their applicability in practice; able to select and apply the most appropriate theoretical strategies in specific research situations; is competent to apply the acquired knowledge practically in the process of personality research and analysis in different life contexts.
Individual work and tests
Solo work - personality analysis
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Solo work - personality analysis |
50.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Perform independent work by analysing personality according to certain criteria (detailed description in E-studies). |
||
|
2.
Active participation in the study process |
-
|
-
|
|
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Final test |
50.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Final examinations are an electronic test that will take place in person in RSU computer room at the end of the autumn semester. The test covers the entire content of the study course and examines students’ knowledge, skills and competences about personality theories. The questions included in the test relate to various aspects related to personality theories – their historical development, main directions, major representatives, theoretical concepts, criticism, as well as practical application possibilities. The topics included in the final test have been published on the E-study site of the study course. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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. |
-
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
Additional Reading
1.
Allen, B.P. (2005). Personality Theories : Development, Growth, and Diversity. Taylor & Francis Group.Suitable for English stream
2.
Reņģe, V. 2000. Psiholoģija. Personības psiholoģija. Lekciju kurss. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
3.
Reņģe, V. 1999. Psiholoģija. Personības psiholoģiskās teorijas. Lekciju kurss. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.
4.
Karpova, Ā. 1998. Personība. Teorijas un to radītāji. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC.