Introduction
Every human being is different in terms of personality, behaviors, and sociability. This fact explains why individuals tend to have diverse expectations in life, values, and practices. A proper understanding of people can result in positive relationships and support systems. This paper defines the term “personality” and outlines the weaknesses and strengths of the approaches used to measure it.
Defining Personality
Bencsik, Machova, and Hevesi (2016) define “personality” as a way of behaving, feeling, socializing, and thinking. Scholars focus on opinions, moods, and attitudes in order to differentiate one person from another. Many psychologists and researchers acknowledge that personality types are influenced by environmental and genetic (or biological) factors. These attributes explain why human beings will always express themselves differently. A proper understanding of an individual’s personality can make it easier for psychologists and therapists to provide desirable support to him or her.
Measuring Personality and Crucial Factors
According to Bencsik et al. (2016), psychologists can assess or measure an individual’s personality using several methods. The first one entails the use of objective measures or tests. These approaches allow people to offer their personal responses. They are embraced since they reduce the bias of the assessor or rater (Bencsik et al., 2017). A good example of this approach is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). The second method is the utilization of projective measures. This technique is developed using the concept of psychoanalysis. It also exposes people’s comatose perceptions. This is achieved using stimuli to reveal an individual’s personality attributes.
Several factors or forces are known to influence the personality of a person. For instance, an individual’s genetic constitution can dictate his or her behaviors and social competencies. The surrounding environment will also influence the attributes, values, and skills developed by a specific person. The culture of an individual is another powerful determinant of personally (Bencsik et al., 2016). Gender differences, religious and family backgrounds, and personal experiences can also influence personality significantly.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Big Five Personality Model: Strengths and Weaknesses
The MBTI is a common inventory used to measure personality. The tool is developed using Carl Jung’s personality model. It is usually applied or utilized in nonclinical settings or populations. On the other hand, the Big Five Personality Model is a framework that indicates that human beings fall into these five personality types: extraversion, agreeableness, openness to experience, emotional stability, and conscientiousness (Hassan, Asad, & Hoshino, 2016). These models have their unique weaknesses and strengths.
The MBTI model has unique strengths that make it applicable in different settings. For instance, it presents 16 personality types that can be used to support diverse cultures. Its neutrality eliminates negative personalities or traits. It is also minimalistic and simple (Kim & Han, 2014). The tool is also believed to promote self-discovery and improvement. However, the model is deceptive since the scores obtained can result in negative interpretations. Its minimalistic aspect can make it impossible for raters to understand clients’ personalities or traits. It’s sedative ability discourages people from engaging in personal development.
The Big Five Personality theory has gained the attention of many scholars and researchers. It is applicable in a wide range of cultures. It can also be modified in such a way that it promotes personality development. It is supported by both biological and environmental factors. The major disadvantage is that the above five traits tend to decrease with an individual’s age (Hassan et al., 2016). The model also presents factors that are independent. Additionally, the theory is undermined by forces such as birth order.
References
Bencsik, A., Machova, R., & Hevesi, E. (2016). The relationship between motivation and personality types. International Business Management, 10(3), 183-193.
Hassan, H., Asad, S., & Hoshino, Y. (2016). Determinants of leadership style in Big Five personality dimensions. Universal Journal of Management, 4(4), 161-179. Web.
Kim, M., & Han, S. (2014). Relationship between the Myers-Briggs type indicator personality profiling, academic performance and student satisfaction in nursing students. International Journal of Bio-Science and Bio-Technology, 6(6), 1-12. Web.