Personality Theory and Assessment - Assignment Example

Personality TheoryQ 1 Personality refers to the combination of qualities that compose a an individual’s character. An individual's environment can influence his or her personality. Likewise, genetic influences affect an individual's personality. Sigmund Freud elaborates why personality theory is best evaluated using scientific criteria. Evaluating personality theory according to scientific criteria enhances understanding of the state of human mind. It also promotes understanding of the factors influencing the characters and personality of an individual.

However, scientific method is associated with limiting the evaluation of theories. It explains the personality theory in a narrow scope. Similarly, it hinders further research on personality theory hence limiting knowledge on the same.Q 2 In his theory of personality, Freud argues that the conflict and structures in a person's mind shapes his personality. He highlights structures of the mind such as ego, id and superego. He also explains how conflicts among structures of the mind determine a person's personality.

Some of the concepts used in psychology today differ from Freud's ideas. The modern day psychologists do not apply some of the concepts presented in Freud's theory. For instance, psychologists have criticized concepts in Freud's theory such as oedipal complex and castration anxiety. On the contrary, Freud's theory still applies in the modern world. His theory led to development of psychoanalysis used today to treat mental illnesses. Moreover, it provides a rich history of psychology applied in learning psychology in the modern world.

Besides, the theory provides approaches to psychological disorders applied today.Q 3 Hitler's biography shows that his poor childhood contributed to his actions in adulthood. He did not channel his leadership skills displayed in primary school into good use. The depression he experienced after world war also contributed to his dictatorship tendencies. Hitler's personality was formed from the characters he had developed before rising to power. He could not tolerate criticism, had desire for revenge, had a tendency of holding grudges and was a bully.

Moreover, the series of challenges that Hitler faced as a child influenced his personality. According to Freud, psychosexual stages during childhood influence the development of an individual's personality. He asserts that an individual has to complete psychosexual stages successfully in order to develop a good personality. It is evident that Hitler did not complete his psychosexual stages successfully as a child. Hitler's loss of a brother turned him into a detached sad boy. He also underwent Oedipus complex as a child.

This is a phenomenon where a boy child develops jealousy to his father and attraction to the mother (Boyle, Matthews & Saklofske, 2008). Oedipus complex made Hitler to revolt against his father. It also highlights the importance of evaluating personality theory according to scientific criteria. In addition, the assignment highlights the application of Freud's personality theory in the modern world.Q 4 This assignment has a positive impact on learning psychology. It enhances understanding of the history of psychology.

It also provides knowledge on Freud's views on the development of an individual's personality. Equally, the assignment highlights the process of personality development of a person form childhood to adulthood. It also elaborates on the factors influencing an individual's personality. ReferenceBoyle, G. J., Matthews, G., & Saklofske, D. H. (2008). The SAGE Handbook of Personality Theory and Assessment. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications.