by Lionel J. Nicholas (Author)

Personality psychology is a locally developed text introductory textbook for undergraduate students studying personality psychology as part of a psychology degree at undergraduate and may also be used at Honours level.

Fifteen chapters offer broad coverage of the range of theories prevalent in the past and present study of personality. The theoretical coverage across paradigmatic approaches is linked throughout to applied research and therapy contexts. The content is integrated to introduce cross-referential thinking across the theories, as well as to encourage students to relate personal experiences and viewpoints to their learning. These aspects are carefully conceptualised to create common features and threads throughout the text, for a consistent style and to encourage critical thinking and develop deeper understanding and engagement in this subject area.

The aim of the book is not to persuade readers of the superiority of a particular personality theory, but to employ critical thinking skills through application of the theories to their experience. Nuances and complexities of the theories arise in the text in an accessible manner through case studies and video links to classic and contemporary personality experiments.

The text explores the relevance of personality psychology to the South African context, and includes a chapter on the African cultural context of personality as well as a chapter on the South African history of personality theory.