PS51005B: Psychology of the Person – Week 12 Lecture Notes: Personality Trait Approach (Goldsmiths BSc Psychology)These notes summarise Week 12 of PS51005B: Psychology of the Person, focusing on the Trait Approach to Personality. This lecture covers key m

These notes summarise Week 12 of PS51005B: Psychology of the Person, focusing on the Trait Approach to Personality. This lecture covers key models, including the Big Five (OCEAN) and Eysenck’s super-traits, while also exploring personality measurement, reliability, and validity. Topics covered: • Definitions of personality: types, traits, and factors • Historical models (e.g., Hippocrates’ humours) vs. modern approaches • Eysenck’s 3-factor model: Extraversion, Neuroticism, Psychoticism • The Big Five: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism • Trait measurement methods: self-report, behavioural ratings, factor analysis • Concepts of reliability (test–retest, inter-rater) and validity • Exercises to self-rate and reflect on personality traits Ideal for: • Psychology undergrads studying personality theory • Students preparing for assessments on trait models • Anyone revising key personality frameworks