Assigned Reading from the Text:  Not responsible for pages 91-92 nor for Wiggins model on pages 99-101.

Sample Essay Questions:
    a.  Personality researchers argue that people can be described in terms of a small number of traits.  List two of the arguments made by those in favor of this view and two of the opposing arguments.  Which point of view seems more valid to you?  Explain the rationale behind your answer.
    b.  Briefly describe the "Big 5" personality model and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator model in terms of the theoretical assumptions underlying each model and the amount and type of empirical research supporting each model.  Which approach seems more valid to you?  Why?

A.  The trait approach to personality.  There are a relatively small number of basic traits that can be used to explain the personality and behavior of all people. The traits are relatively stable.   People vary in terms of how high or low they are on each of these basic traits.  These traits are believed to predict behavior.

B.  There is no stable personality that can be measured.  Behavior is primarily the result of the situation.  This is the alternative viewpoint.

C.  Arguments for "B" include:
        1.  Empirical studies show low levels of test-retest reliability, especially over long periods of time.
        2.  The relationship between self-reported trait levels and associated behaviors tends to be moderate to low.

D.  Arguments for "A" include:
        1.  People's naive psychology is filled with beliefs about traits.  Many trait words in language.
        2.  Problems in demonstrating stability can be solved and better empirical data are possible.
        3.  Scientists have argued for stable traits throughout history
                a.  Ancient Greeks hypothesized there were four basic "humors".  Yellow bile is irritability; black bile is depression, blood is optimism, and phlegm is calmness.  [See Chapter 11 in the book].
                b.  In the 19th century, there was a widespread scientific belief that the shape and size of the skull determined the personality.
                c.  In the 1940's Sheldon proposed three basic types:  mesomorphs, endomorphs, and ectomorphs
        4.  Modern studies use a statistical procedure called "factor analysis" to find related traits.

E.  Eysenck's Trait Model.  Four basic types of people based on the dimensions of introvert/extrovert and stable/unstable.
        Theory evolved to a three factor model with extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism as the factors. [See page 98].
        Measured with EPQ [Eysenck Personality Questionnaire].

F.  Myers-Briggs Type Inidcator.  Based on theories of Carl Jung.  Uses three dimensions of introversion/extraversion, thinking/feeling and sensation/intuition.  Scale to measure these dimensions is MBTI [Myers-Briggs Type Indicator].
            Widely used in counseling settings, but has methodological problems.

G.  Cattell's Sixteen-Factor Model.  Used Allport & Odbert list and reduced to 171 traits.  Asked people to self report on all these traits.  Also got observer ratings.  Used statistical analyses to see which traits went together.  Found 16 basic dimensions.  Developed a scale with these called the 16PF.

H.  Big Five.  Fiske and other researchers tried to replicate Cattell and got only 5 factors.  The specific five factors change, depending on exactly how work is done.  Generally agreed upon factors are extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotionality, and culture.  Measured by Costa & McCrae's NEO Personality Inventory.