1. Individual Differences:
* It refers to the unique and relatively stable patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make each person distinct.
* This includes traits, attitudes, values, and motivations that influence how we perceive and interact with the world.
2. Psychological Construct:
* Personality is a theoretical construct used to explain and predict individual behavior.
* It's not a tangible thing but rather a way of organizing and understanding the many ways people differ.
3. Influencing Factors:
* Our personalities are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental influences (e.g., upbringing, culture), and personal experiences.
4. Observable Behaviors:
* While personality is internal, it manifests in observable behaviors, such as how we communicate, interact with others, and make decisions.
5. Trait Theories:
* Personality theories often focus on identifying specific traits that describe individuals.
* These traits, such as extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness, can be measured and used to predict behavior.
6. Dynamic and Changing:
* While personality is relatively stable over time, it's not static.
* Life experiences, learning, and growth can lead to changes in personality.
In summary, "personality" is a comprehensive term that encompasses the unique and consistent patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make each person different. It's a psychological construct influenced by various factors, and it manifests in observable ways.