Introduction to personality (b)

In this session, you will explore the different aspects of individuals that can be assessed, such as temperament, motivation, values, beliefs, attitudes, and abilities, and how these relate to personality. You will also examine how the distinction between personality and ability has become increasingly blurred and consider both the biological (nature) and environmental (nurture) influences on personality, supported by research evidence.

After this talk, you will:

• Understand the different aspects of individuals that can be assessed, such as temperament, motivation, values, beliefs, attitudes, and abilities.

• Know that individual differences are central to the study of personality in psychometrics.

• Recognise that temperament tends to have a stronger genetic component, whereas motivations, values, beliefs, and attitudes are more influenced by the environment.

• Be aware that the boundary between personality, ability, and competencies is becoming increasingly blurred as research progresses.

• Understand the nature versus nurture debate in relation to personality, and be familiar with evidence supporting biological influences (nature), such as twin studies and brain research.

• Appreciate that neither nature nor nurture alone fully explains personality, and that both play a role.

• Know why it is important to consider different aspects of personality and related traits when assessing an individual for a job or development within an organisation.