Comparing and Contrasting Personality Theories: Humanistic vs. Psychoanalytic

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Overview
As you can see, each theory makes certain assumptions about the origins of personality. Depending on the theory, the focus can be on unconscious motivators, unmet needs, social forces, acceptance by your parents, biology, or your predominant tendencies or traits. If you find yourself following only one particular theory or approach, you might develop tunnel vision. You might miss observations, inferences, and conclusions that don’t fit the assumptions of your chosen theory. That is why it is important to be aware of more than one theory, while acknowledging how they compare and contrast. Understanding the differences between theories will allow you to acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses of each theory. It will also allow you to think of the person on different levels.
For this assignment, you will compare and contrast two personality theories or approaches from the personality theory list. For example, humanistic psychology and psychoanalytic theory are almost polar opposites so these are easier to contrast, yet there are some commonalities, too. The choice of which two personalities or approaches to compare is up to you. This milestone prepares you for Project One, due in Module Six.
Personality Theories and Approaches
Humanistic psychology
Psychoanalytic theory
Neo-Freudian/object relations theory
Trait approach
Biological perspective
Motivation
Prompt
To begin your milestone, first select two personality theories from the list provided that you think contrast in meaningful ways. Next, use your Project One Milestone Template Word Document to address the following rubric criteria:
Identify which two theories or approaches you will compare and contrast and explain why you chose them. Your response should be about 2 to 4 sentences.
Describe how your two chosen theories differ by selecting 3 topics from A through G below. Your response for each topic should be about 3 to 5 sentences.
Scientific nature
Do the theories you selected differ on their scientific nature? Is one theory more scientific? Consider the techniques used to collect information and devise theories.
Justify your response.
Nature versus nurture
Do the theories you selected differ on the roles of nature versus nurture? Does one theory favor one role to a greater degree than the other? Or is one more neutral in regard to the role of nature and nurture?
Justify your response.
Origin of problems
Do the theories you selected differ in their determination of the origin of mental health or adjustment issues?
Justify your response.
Pathology
Do the theories you selected differ in the emphasis on the pathology of problems versus focusing on thriving and finding meaning in life? Or is one theory more neutral on the role of pathology versus thriving?
Justify your response.
Free will
Do the theories you selected differ on the role of free will? Does one theory do a better job of conveying that people have free will to become the person they wish to be?
Justify your response.
Environmental influences
Do the theories you selected differ on the role of environmental influences? If both theories take environmental factors into consideration, how do they do so differently?
Justify your response.
Internal versus external stimuli
Do the theories you selected favor the role of internal or external stimuli more? Do they define behavior as more active or reactive?
Justify your response.
Describe at least one similarity between your two selected theories. Your response should be about 3 to 5 sentences.
What to Submit
Submit your completed Project One Milestone Template. If you cite external resources, you must use APA citation style.

 

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

  1. Select Two Personality Theories to Compare and Contrast:
    Start by choosing two personality theories or approaches from the provided list. Look for theories that contrast in meaningful ways, but also keep in mind that even polar opposites like humanistic psychology and psychoanalytic theory may have some commonalities.

    • Example: Humanistic psychology and psychoanalytic theory are stark contrasts, with one focusing on self-actualization and the other on unconscious drives.
  2. Introduction:
    In your introduction, briefly explain which two theories you have selected and why you believe they are interesting to compare. Your response should be 2 to 4 sentences.
  3. Compare and Contrast:
    Choose three topics from the following list (A through G) and write 3 to 5 sentences for each. Make sure to explain how the theories differ based on each topic:

    • Scientific Nature:
      Discuss if one theory is more scientific than the other. Consider the methods used by each theory to gather information and devise conclusions.

      • Example: Psychoanalytic theory relies on case studies and subjective analysis, while humanistic psychology uses more empirical, observational methods.
    • Nature versus Nurture:
      How do the two theories view the role of nature (biology, genetics) and nurture (environment, experiences) in personality development?

      • Example: The biological perspective emphasizes nature, while the humanistic approach might focus more on nurture and the role of personal experience.
    • Origin of Problems:
      Do the theories differ in their views on the origins of mental health or adjustment issues?

      • Example: Psychoanalysis focuses on unconscious conflicts, while humanistic psychology sees problems arising from unmet needs or self-actualization barriers.
    • Pathology:
      Discuss whether the theories emphasize pathology (mental health problems) or thriving (self-improvement and growth).

      • Example: The trait approach focuses on stable personality traits, while the humanistic approach is more concerned with helping people thrive and find meaning in life.
    • Free Will:
      How does each theory view the role of free will? Is one theory more focused on personal choice and autonomy?

      • Example: Humanistic psychology emphasizes free will and self-determination, while psychoanalysis may downplay the role of free will, focusing on unconscious drives.
    • Environmental Influences:
      How do the two theories view the role of environmental factors in shaping personality?

      • Example: The trait approach is more focused on internal traits, while humanistic psychology emphasizes how external factors influence personal growth.
    • Internal vs External Stimuli:
      Does one theory favor internal or external stimuli more? Does one theory describe behavior as more active or reactive?

      • Example: Psychoanalytic theory emphasizes internal unconscious drives, while the trait approach focuses on external behavior and its consistency.
  4. Identify a Similarity:
    Even though you are comparing two contrasting theories, find at least one similarity between them. This could be a shared belief, approach, or concept.

    • Example: Both psychoanalytic theory and humanistic psychology focus on understanding human behavior, albeit in different ways.
  5. Conclusion:
    Wrap up your assignment by summarizing the key points you have discussed, restating the importance of comparing these two theories, and offering your perspective on their strengths and weaknesses.
  6. APA Citation:
    If you have used external sources, make sure to cite them using APA format both in-text and in your reference list.

By following this guide, you will be able to tackle each component of the assignment methodically and ensure your paper is well-organized and well-supported with evidence. Feel free to ask if you need further clarification or help with any specific section!

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