Question

Wally is described as moody, tense, and anxious. According to Eysenck, Wally is high in a. extraversion b. neuroticism c. fearfulness d. psychoticism

Short answer

b. neuroticism

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Terms

First, understand the meaning of the terms provided in the options. Extraversion refers to an outgoing, energetic behavior. Neuroticism involves emotional instability and anxiousness. Fearfulness is related to feeling afraid or timid. Psychoticism refers to personality patterns typifying aggression or a lack of empathy.

Analyze Wally's Description

Examine the traits described for Wally: moody, tense, and anxious. These words suggest a temperament that is emotionally unstable and possibly experiencing internal turmoil, which aligns with one of Eysenck's personality dimensions.

Identify Eysenck's Personality Dimensions

Eysenck's model of personality includes three main dimensions: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism. Each dimension accounts for different traits and behaviors. It is important to categorize emotions like moodiness and anxiety within this framework.

Match Traits to Eysenck's Dimensions

Given that Wally is described as moody, tense, and anxious, these traits align most closely with neuroticism based on Eysenck’s model, as neuroticism involves emotional instability and anxiety.

Select the Best Answer

Now, choose the option that corresponds to the analysis. Since moodiness, tenseness, and anxiousness are indicative of high neuroticism, option (b) neuroticism is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Eysenck's Personality Dimensions

Hans Eysenck, a prominent figure in personality psychology, proposed a model that suggests individual differences can be captured through three primary dimensions. This model is essential for understanding how various personality traits can be organized comprehensively.
Understanding these dimensions helps in delineating complex human behaviors and traits into a more structured framework.

1. **Extraversion**: This dimension reflects an individual's level of sociability and outgoingness. Those scoring high tend to be energetic, engaging socially, and often thrill-seekers.

• Characteristics include being talkative and assertive.
• Opposite end includes introversion, characterized by quietness and reserved behavior.

2. **Neuroticism**: This dimension focuses on emotional instability and tendency to experience negative emotions.

• Characteristics include moodiness, anxiety, and tension.
• Individuals may react overly to stress and have difficulty regulating their emotions effectively.

3. **Psychoticism**: This dimension is related to aggressiveness and interpersonal hostility.

• Higher scores may indicate a lack of empathy, aggressiveness, and antisocial behaviors.
• This dimension is less about situational response and more about consistent personality patterns.

Each dimension is independent, meaning someone could score high on one but low on another. Understanding these dimensions allows psychologists to predict behavior patterns and devise better intervention strategies.

Neuroticism

Neuroticism is one of the key personality traits in psychology, particularly emphasized in Eysenck's dimensions. Understanding neuroticism can help in identifying why certain individuals behave in particular ways.
This trait is characterized by a tendency towards emotional instability and negative emotional states.

1. **Key Characteristics**:

• Typically, individuals high in neuroticism are more likely to experience anxiety, mood swings, and irritability.
• They might also find it challenging to handle stress and could have a propensity for negative thinking.

2. **Behavioral Patterns**:

• Those with high neuroticism may overreact to minor stresses and often perceive routine situations as threatening.
• They may also struggle with self-confidence and feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks.

3. **Implications**: Understanding neuroticism is crucial, especially for mental health professionals. It helps in devising coping strategies for those affected by high neuroticism.

• Therapists may work on building resilience and better emotional regulation skills in individuals.
• Such interventions can enhance well-being and emotional stability for those with high neuroticism.

An awareness of neuroticism and its presence in one's life is the first step towards managing and improving emotional health.

Personality Traits

Personality traits are enduring characteristics that describe an individual's typical patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They are the building blocks of our personality and can influence a wide range of actions and life experiences.

1. **Understanding Traits**:

• Personality traits are consistent over time and across different situations.
• Traits like openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism provide a framework to understand personalities.

2. **Importance of Traits**:

• Traits influence how we interact with the world and form relationships.
• They can affect career choices, social interactions, and emotional responses.

3. **Trait Assessment**:

• Tools such as the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire help in measuring individual trait scores.
• Understanding one's traits can lead to better self-awareness and personal growth.

Personality traits are not just about categorizing people but understanding the complexity of human nature and behavior. Recognizing and understanding these traits provide valuable insights into personal behaviors and motivations.