Theories of Personality Development

Unit 5 Assignment Guide
Scenario 1
Theory 1: The first interpretation of the scenario is an excellent example of the psychodynamic viewpoint because it explores Alex's unresolved childhood issues, his relationship with his father, and his use of a workaholic lifestyle as a potential defense mechanism to avoid close connections and maturation.
Theory 2: The second interpretation of the scenario illustrates a learning strategy because it states that Alex became classically conditioned to identify manliness with hard work, and he is still strengthened to work hard by acquiring family approval and financial rewards.
Theory 3: The third interpretation of the scenario is an example of the humanistic perspective because it emphasizes the need for Alex to be treated with unwavering admiration and acceptance of who he is. Self-actualization is also discussed, implying that Alex must travel down his path to find happiness.
Theory 4: The fourth hypothesis is a prime example of trait theories because it suggests Alex has a hardworking and possibly addictive personality due to his inherent, perhaps genetically driven, disposition. This interpretation focuses on inborn characteristics that Alex might have gotten from his parents.
Theory

Associated Personality Theory

Theory 1

Psyhodynamic Perspective

Theory 2

Learning Approaches

Theory 3

Humanistic Approaches

Theory 4

Trait Theories

The learning approaches point of view makes the most sense when considering Alex's current situation (Obrenovic et al., 2020). Thus, the second interpretation, grounded in theories of learning, is that Alex has been typically conditioned to link effort with manliness, a lesson he may have internalized through his many interactions with his father and the unwavering su...