Cognitive Psychology and Theories of Personality - Assignment Example

Cognitive Psychology and Theories of Personality Respond to Millers ic 1956 article. Find a theory that is discussed in Millers article that you find interesting. a). What attracts you to this theory? The information processing theory by Miller is very interesting. First, his concept of chunking and short-term memory proves really challenging and informative. His idea of short-term holds 5- 9 chunks of data seems applicable in all spheres of life, thus forming the basis of subsequent memory theories (Miller, 1956). Consequently, the second concept, Test- Operate- Test – Exit (TOTE), proposing the replacement of the stimulus response with TOTE is applicable in the contemporary world. b). Explain how this theory applies to your life. The information processing theory is applicable in my life through the adoption of TOTE. In life, goals are set and resources directed in order for their achievement. Thus, TOTE advises me that in case I have tested a certain goal and have not achieved it, I need to perform an operation in order to achieve the set goal. However, in case the goal is not achievable after several attempts, I need to abandon it since continued testing is imprudent (Miller, 1956). 2).We all have problems with our short term memories from time to time. a. Give an example of when you have felt that your resources have been drained due to stress on your working memory. In life, sometimes remembering certain information proves challenging. Revisiting a place I went for the first time seemed a nightmare in the earlier years. This was because locating my route was a problem and in many instances, I inquired from the locals, thus portraying an image of an alien. Moreover, I used to spend a lot of time and energy moving from one place to another remembering street names and in inquiring from locals, and thus was stressed and tired at the end of my journey. Therefore, I used to get embarrassed and uncomfortable in such situations. b). Then discuss different tactics you used to try to help the situation. In trying to solve the situation, I started mastering images, signposts, and pictures on my way. Consequently, I remembered unique buildings and names of roads, and using them as a guide in finding my way out in case I got lost. c). Can you think of some mnemonic devices you have used to aid in remembering material? -Image mnemonics – I have used common image mnemonics of both mentally and in my class notes to aid in remembering certain points from lectures. I normally draw images that I easily remember during exam, and this has enhanced academic performance (Martin, 2012). -Name mnemonics – in order to boost my memory, I use name mnemonics by taking the first letter of certain points and combining them to create a more recollectable term or name that I easily remember during exam period, thus leading to improved grades (Martin, 2012). -Model mnemonics – to boost my memory, I devise models with varied shapes such as pie charts and circular sequence. Thereafter, I incorporate lists and some words, which assist me in recalling the vital information whenever I need them. -Music mnemonics- I use music to remember certain information and details. I normally compose a song from a list of class notes and points, thus, facing minimal difficulties in trying to remember the points. This has also boosted my grade in class (Martin, 2012). 3) a. In what ways is Eriksons theory different from and similar to Freuds theory? Which theory do you think has more validity? Explain your reasoning. Erikson’s theory of personality introduces the eight stages of development in the entire life of a human being. At each stage, a person confronts as well as masters the new challenges, thus the stages are dependent; one stage develops because of successful completion of the other earlier stages (McLeod, 2008). Each of the psychosocial development stage is characterized by a conflict or forces which if successfully reconciled leads to a favorable result. Moreover, the conflict resolves itself around a significant event. Favorable outcomes or results within each stage are referred as virtues. According to Erikson, every person needs to learn how to balance both the extremes within every specific life- stage challenge (McLeod, 2008). Therefore, virtues associated with various stages are experienced when a person understands and accepts the life stage challenge. The stages include; a) . Hope; Trust vs Mistrust – this is the first stage of Erikson’s theory and focuses on the satisfaction of the needs of an infant by parents, which can lead to the development of trust or mistrust on the child (McLeod, 2008). It starts from birth to 2 years at oral sensory stage. A child’s overall understanding of the world as well as society originates from the parents and the manner in which they interact with the child and thus, depends on the quality or nature of maternal relationship. For instance, in case the parents expose their child to regularity, comfort, dependable affection, and warmth, the child will trust other people in world. However, in case the parents does not provide the needs of the child, neglect or abuse the child, he or she will develop a view of mistrust. In such a situation, the child will feel frustrated, suspicious, lack confidence, as well as withdraw from various activities since he or she will feel that other people are unpredictable and undependable, thus consider the world as dangerous place (McLeod, 2008). b). Will: - Autonomous vs Shame and doubt- occurs at the Muscular – Anal stage. While gaining control over motor abilities as well as eliminative functions, a child explores his or her surroundings. Therefore, at this stage, kids explore the world around them, thus continuously learn various components of the environment. At this stage, children develop their primary interests such as playing with a radio in case the child likes music or play with animals and plants in case he or she prefers outdoor activities (McLeod, 2008). Therefore, parents must provide a solid base for the kid to venture out and express his or her will. Parents should remain patient and encourage kids as this fosters child autonomy. Moreover, parents need to be cautious since kids may explore dangerous things, which may affect their safety and health (McLeod, 2008). Therefore, in situations that caregivers support self-sufficient behavior, kids learn to be autonomous, thereby being able to handle many problems without assistance. However, in case caregivers do not permit children to perform tasks that they can manage without assistance or ridicule their early trials at self-sufficiency, kids may develop shame as well as doubt their abilities to deal with problems (McLeod, 2008). c). Purpose: Initiative vs, Guilt – occurs at the Locomotor – genital, preschool stage between age 4- 5. At this stage, kids master things within their environment as well as learn common principles and skills of physics (McLeod, 2008). They experience the challenge of guilt vs initiative, thus face complexities of planning, as well as developing logic. Kids also discover on taking initiative and preparing for leadership as well as goal achievement roles. Therefore, both teachers and parents must support and encourage the efforts of the kids and assist them make appropriate and realistic choices. This makes them develop initiative and independence in preparing and undertaking various activities (McLeod, 2008). Conversely, if adults discourage pursuit of independent activities or dismiss them, kids develop guilt concerning their desires and needs. d). Competency: Industry vs Inferiority- occurs at the latency stage between ages 5 –12. According to Erikson, kids at this stage understand themselves as they work hard at being good and doing things the right way as they become more reasonable to cooperate and share (McLeod, 2008). Moreover, kids develop complex skills and moral values while recognizing cultural differences. Consequently, they may become rebellious or disobedient. Thus, parents must encourage kids to undertake certain activities and praise them for such accomplishment, as this makes them become diligent and persevering in their tasks (McLeod, 2008). Conversely, in case parents and teachers punish or ridicule kids for their efforts, they develop sense of inferiority, low esteem, and depression with regard to their abilities. e). Fidelity: Identity vs Role Confusion- occurs at the adolescence stage at ages 13 – 19. This is the stage between child life and adult life, thus bridge in life (McLeod, 2008). It is accompanied by significant body changes with brain searching for personal intentions as well as intentions of others. Moreover, they recognize personal identity and sexual identity as well as society expectation of a person. Adolescents frequently ask themselves about their identity and direction of life (McLeod, 2008). According to Erikson, parents should allow kids to explore things since it will enable them discover and conclude their individual identity. In contrast, if parents push kids to conform to or accept their views and perceptions, teens will experience identity confusion (McLeod, 2008). f). Generality vs Isolation – forms the initial phase of adult development and occurs during young adulthood; 20 – 24 years. The most significant relationships at this stage include dating, family and marriage as the individuals form loving relationships with various people, and thus having the opportunity to experience intimacy and love (McLeod, 2008). However, failing to form long lasting relationship leads to isolation and loneliness. g). Generativity vs stagnation- is the second stage within adult development and occurs at 25 – 64 years. At this stage, individuals have settled in life and have proper understanding for important things (McLeod, 2008). Consequently, individuals in this group either have progressed in careers or may be uncertain about their entire lives. Moreover, they raise their kids as well as participate in events or activities that generate a sense of purpose. However, in case a person feels uncomfortable with his or her career, they regret about their life decisions and deem themselves useless (McLeod, 2008). h). Ego integrity vs despair- affects people of age 65 and above who are at the final chapter of their life, and thus are approaching retirement or have retired (McLeod, 2008). Those who have accomplished their goals develop a sense of honor or integrity whereas those who had trouble in middle adulthood feels despair (McLeod, 2008). Erikson’s theory is similar to Freud’s theory since he accepts his topography and structure of personality. Consequently, Erikson recognizes that personality develops in a programmed manner (McLeod, 2008). However, Erikson is an ego psychologist while Freud is an id psychologist. Erikson focused on society and culture as well as conflicts experienced within the ego (McLeod, 2008). Conversely, Freud focuses on sexual development while Erikson focuses on the manner children socialize, and its effect on their respective sense of self. Therefore, Erikson rejected Freud’s description of personality solely based on sexuality (McLeod, 2008). He asserts that personality continues to develop even after a child reaches age 5. Conversely, Freud focused on the conflict within superego and the id. Erikson’s theory has more validity compared to Freud’s theory since it has a broad perspective of personality. His theory deals with society, culture, and conflicts arising within ego unlike Freud who solely deals with sexuality. Moreover, Erikson’s theory asserts that personality extends beyond age 5, this is true, and more convincing since development occurs at all stages of human life (McLeod, 2008). b). In your own words describe the concept of identity consolidation. How do you think this process takes place in modern society? Describe at least 2 events or factors you think can make it easier or harder to achieve identity consolidation. Identity consolidation refers to the manner by which people organize and integrate their identities throughout the process of development (Identity & Gender Development, 2013). In modern society, identity consolidation takes place through exploration. In day – day life, teens explore different things, thus, facilitating decision-making. Moreover, identity consolidation occurs through commitment whereby teens commit themselves to whatever they undertake, thus enhancing decision making and thereafter promoting identity consolidation (Identity & Gender Development, 2013). Factors influencing identity consolidation -Parents and peers- parents and peers often influence our thinking and perception of the world. Some parental decisions and advices may hinder exploration as well as discourage commitment, thus, slowing or stalling identity consolidation. -Attitude –negative attitude towards exploration and commitment hampers identity consolidation since it reduces personal involvement as well as decision-making process. c). How does Eriksons image of human nature differ from Jungs? Which theory do you think has more validity? Explain your reasoning. Erikson views a human being as a product of the environment; the environment influences growth, self-awareness, identity, and adjustment (McLeod, 2008). Conversely, Jung considers a human being to be inwardly whole and that individualization is the purpose of life (Luttrell, 2009). Thus, realization of a man’s uniqueness facilitates the process of individualization, thereby tapping into oneself. Erikson’s theory has more validity since in reality environmental factors have a major role in the development of man. However, Jung’s individualization view of humanity is valid but cannot be compared to Erikson’s view since environmental factors out do individualization. 4) a. Find two articles about Gordon Allport and/or his theories. Post the url for each of them and include a few sentences about each article and its source. Boeree. G. C. (2006). Personality theories. Gordon Allport 1897- 1967. Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/allport.html The article gives a biography of Gordon, his early works, experience, and his contribution to the development of personality theories. For instance, on meeting Freud, Gordon narrated an observation on his way to Vienna. He saw a boy who was upset at having to sit on place previously sat by a old man who was dirty. Moreover, Gordon asserts that the tendency to meet biological survival needs motivates human beings. He referred to the situation as opportunistic functioning (Boeree, 2006). Wilderdom. (2004). Gordon Allport: Father of personality Theory. Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://wilderdom.com/personality/traits/PersonalityTraitsGordonAllport.html The article considers Allport as the father of personality theory who believed in uniqueness and on individuality of a person. Moreover, he believed that human beings have different personalities (Wilderdom, 2004). References Identity & Gender Development. (2013). Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://faculty.txwes.edu/mskerr/files/3304/3304_ch4.htm Luttrell, A. (2009). The Personality Theory of Carl Jung. Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://suite101.com/article/the-personality-theory-of-carl-jung-a170440 Martin, M. Improving Memory. Retrieved Dec 23, 2013 from http://mightymemory.com/articles/memoryarticles.html#a1 McLeod, S. (2008). Erik Erikson. Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://www.simplypsychology.org/Erik-Erikson.html Miller, G.A. (1956). The magical number seven, plus or minus two: Some limits on our capacity for processing information. Psychological Review, 63, 81-97. Retrieved Jan 23, 2013 from http://www.musanim.com/miller1956 Read More