Trait / Descriptive Approach

• Not a developmental theory!
• Used to understand current personality
• Can describe "normal" or "abnormal" personality characteristics
• Personality tests used to determine traits (MMPI, CPI, 16-PF, Myers-Briggs, Big 5, Sensation-seeking, Self-monitoring, Locus of control, Rorschach Ink Blot, TAT, etc.)

Genetic / Biological Approach

• Deterministic
• Genetic Predispositions and Hormone Balances influence Personality Development (in conjunction with environment)
• Personality Disorders caused by Genetics, Hormone Imbalances, Brain Damage
• Fix using drugs or surgery if possible

Psychodynamic Approach

• Deterministic
• Personality Develops through Psychosexual Stages involving dynamic interactions between id, ego, and superego
• Daily conflict / anxiety relieved using defense mechanisms
• Personality Problems occur due to fixations during development; unacceptable desires and memories repressed in unconscious mind come out inappropriately
• Fix through Psychoanalysis / Catharsis

Behaviorist / Learning Perspective

• Deterministic
• Behavior learned through classical conditioning, operant conditioning, or observational learning
• Personality problems learned through the above processes
• Fix using behavioral therapy (behavior modification)

Humanistic / Cognitive Perspective

• Not Deterministic &endash; allows free will! (this approach is reaction to earlier approaches)
• Personality developed through growing self awareness of one's abilities and how those align with goals (self-concept: ideal self versus real self)
• Personality problems occur when there is discrepancy between ideal and real self, or other mal-adaptive thought patterns occur
• Fix using cognitive therapy