Problem 1 - An Introduction to Theories of Personality

Question

It has been argued that the content of any theory of personality is strongly influenced by the theorist's own personality (e.g., Mindess, 1988 ). Why might a personality theorist want to believe that aspects of his or her personality are shared by everyone?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

A personality theorist might believe that aspects of his or her personality are shared by everyone due to the influence of their personal biases, the false-consensus effect, and their psychological need for validation and normalization of their traits.

Step 1: Understanding Theory Formation

Initially, understand that theory formation often stems from personal beliefs, experiences, and perspectives of the theorist. Hence, personality theories are no exception to this and might be influenced by the theorist's own personality.

Step 2: Bias in Theory

Then, demonstrate the presence of bias. A theorist might assume that traits of their personality are shared by everyone due to a phenomenon known as 'False-Consensus Effect'. This is a cognitive bias in which people overestimate the degree to which their behaviours, values, or beliefs are shared by others.

Step 3: Seeking Validation

Lastly, explain the need for validation. In assuming that everyone shares their traits, the theorist could be seeking validation and normalization for those traits. This further supports their personal theories and beliefs about personality.