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PSY465 Psychology of Personality (8)

Abstract

This subject examines the descriptive and causal aspects of personality and individual differences. It explores the major approaches to the study of personality and current research in personality. The subject considers how each theory answers such basic questions as the nature of human personality and motivation, the process of personality development, and the factors influencing the development of both normal and maladaptive forms of behaviour.  This subject will enable you to think critically and reflect upon individual differences in human conduct.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
DistanceBathurst Campus
Session 3
DistanceBathurst Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PSY465
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Psychology

Assumed Knowledge

PSY451 and (PSY452 or PSY453 or PSY454 or PSY458)

Enrolment restrictions

Students may not complete PSY465 and PSY305 in the same award. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to discuss some important theoretical issues in the study of personality
  • be able to outline the main techniques of personality assessment, basic psychometric concepts, (e.g., reliability and validity), and describe various methods of test construction
  • be able to evaluate current research in personality, and describe the different research methods used
  • be able to discuss and evaluate a number of theories from the major traditions in personality theory, and apply these theories in describing behaviour
  • be able to think critically and with increased sophistication formulate independent opinions regarding issues in personality
  • be able to reflect critically upon individual differences in human conduct

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • introduction to personality theory
  • personality research and assessment
  • trait theories of personality
  • psychodynamic theories of personality
  • humanistic theories of personality
  • behavioural and social learning theories of personality
  • current research in personality
  • The subject may also cover some of the following topics:
  • Biological and evolutionary perspectives on personality
  • Cognitive processes and personality
  • Culture and personality
  • Personality disorders

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.