Overview
This lecture covers Hans Eysenck's contributions to the biological and trait approaches in personality psychology, and introduces the concept of universal traits through natural selection.
Hans Eysenck and Supertraits
- Hans Eysenck pioneered the biological approach to personality, building on trait theory.
- He predicted three "supertraits" with high genetic influence: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism.
- Extraversion and neuroticism align with current Big Five traits; psychoticism reflects abnormal traits not measured in standard personality tests.
- Eysenck developed a trait hierarchy, placing supertraits at the top, followed by narrower traits and specific habitual/behavioral responses.
- Example: Extraversion includes traits like sociability, linked to habitual responses (e.g., liking crowds) and specific behaviors (e.g., attending parties).
Biological and Physiological Approaches
- Eysenck emphasized physiological bases for personality, such as sensitivity to stimulation.
- He found differences in caffeine sensitivity: introverts are more affected than extroverts due to physiological differences.
Natural Selection and Universal Traits
- The concept of natural selection explains how traits with reproductive advantages become more common in populations.
- Universal traits are traits/preference patterns widespread within a species or a gender due to evolutionary success.
- Example given: Preference for partners of fertile age becomes universal among men over generations due to reproductive advantage.
- Universal traits may differ between genders due to different reproductive challenges and environments.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Supertrait — A broad personality dimension with high genetic influence, such as extraversion or neuroticism.
- Trait Hierarchy — Eysenck's model: supertraits at the top, then narrower traits, habitual responses, and specific behaviors.
- Psychoticism — A trait involving coldness and lack of empathy, considered abnormal.
- Universal Trait — A characteristic or preference widespread within a population or a gender due to evolutionary success.
- Natural Selection — The process where traits that improve reproductive success become more prevalent in a population.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences between normal and abnormal traits in personality models.
- Prepare for the next lecture segment on David Buss and evolutionary approaches to personality.