In personality psychology, what does the term 'archetypes' refer to?

The term 'archetypes' in personality psychology refers to universal symbols and themes that are thought to be part of the collective unconscious, a concept introduced by Carl Jung. These archetypes manifest in literature, mythology, art, and dreams, and they embody fundamental human experiences that resonate across cultures and personal histories. They represent the innate qualities and dynamics of the human psyche, such as the Hero, the Mother, the Shadow, and the Wise Old Man, among others.

By understanding archetypes, psychologists and individuals can gain insights into their behaviors, motivations, and developmental patterns. The universality of these symbols explains why they can be found in various cultures and times, reflecting shared experiences of humanity rather than being limited to specific contexts or individual personality traits. Thus, the emphasis on archetypes is on their broad, symbolic meaning and shared human experiences rather than on individual behaviors, traits, or cultural differences.