How is personality developed? What roles do genetics and environment play in personality development? How do experiences influence personality? How is a person motivated?

http://www.google.com/search?q=personality+development&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

bobpursley

thank you for guidance. I tried googling yesterday and did not come up with near as many results as your search did. Again I appreciate the assistance, have a great day!

In your judgment what are the most important ideas you learned in the lessons studied since the last journal entry? Include one idea per major area studied. (See the list of major areas below) Describe these ideas following the relevant principles of critical thinking (clarity, accuracy, precision, and depth). Write at least a one paragraph description for each of the ideas you have selected. Next explain why you think that the ideas you selected are important - in particular how each idea contributes toward a better understanding of human psychology and how these ideas have relevance and application toward the improvement of human life and mental well being. Write at least one paragraph per idea explaining your reasons for including that idea. Finally, in one or two concluding paragraphs, describe how the learning and understanding of these new ideas enhanced or changed the way that you think about people including yourself.

Three major areas:

Sensation and Perception
Learning and Conditioning
Memory

Personality development is a complex process that is influenced by both genetics and the environment. Let's break down each component and understand their roles in shaping personality:

1. Genetics: Our genes play a role in shaping our personality. Certain genetic traits can predispose individuals to certain personality traits. For example, some studies suggest that genetic factors contribute to traits like extraversion or neuroticism. However, it's important to note that genes only provide a framework, and they interact with the environment to shape personality.

2. Environment: The environment refers to the external factors that influence a person's development, such as family, friends, culture, and life experiences. The environment can have a significant impact on personality development. For instance, growing up in a nurturing and supportive environment can promote positive personality traits, while experiencing neglect or abuse can lead to negative traits or psychological issues. Different cultures and social norms can also shape personality by influencing values, beliefs, and behaviors.

3. Experiences: Personal experiences play a crucial role in shaping personality. Significant life events, such as trauma, success, failure, relationships, and education, can have a lasting impact on personality. Positive experiences can boost confidence, resilience, and optimism, leading to the development of positive personality traits. Conversely, negative experiences can result in fear, anxiety, or lower self-esteem, which may manifest as negative personality traits or psychological disorders.

4. Motivation: Motivation refers to the underlying forces that drive and direct our behavior. Motivation can be divided into intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) motivation. Intrinsic motivation comes from within and is driven by personal interests, values, and goals. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from external rewards or pressures, such as money or status.

Many factors influence motivation, including personal values, needs, desires, and expectations. Understanding what motivates a person requires considering their unique combination of internal and external factors. Some common theories of motivation include Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which suggests that individuals are motivated by fulfilling various levels of needs, and expectancy theory, which emphasizes the importance of perceived outcomes and probabilities.

To study and understand personality development, researchers often use a combination of methods, such as genetic studies, observational research, longitudinal studies that follow individuals over time, and self-report assessments.