What assumptions are made by personality theorists that embrace a stage approach? On
methodological and conceptual grounds, how is this approach different from the trait
perspective? What concerns have been raised about this approach on such
grounds?
What will be an ideal response?
Stage theorists assume that personality development displays abrupt, qualitative
changes during adulthood. Conceptually, stage theorists assume that personality
change has less to do with changes in broad personality dispositions, and more to do
with changes in the way we view ourselves, others, and our life priorities. To test these
assumptions, these experts have largely relied on interview methods to capture such
broad thinking in thought processes. Unfortunately, these interview methods may be
difficult to administer and code, and a number of studies supporting a stage perspective
have relied on educated samples of either men or women (but not both). In addition,
while stage theorists assume that personality structure changes during major life
transitions (e.g., parenthood; midlife), it is rare for researchers to actually follow adults
during these transitions to see if there are indeed changes in such structure.
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a. negative reinforcement c. positive reinforcement b. punishment d. shaping
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a. power culture b. controlling culture c. minority culture d. majority culture
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