Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Theory of Personality (D564) Exam with targeted study materials and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and excel in your exam!

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Which of the following is NOT a component of personality according to trait theorists?

Behavioral tendencies
Unconscious desires
Emotional states
Cognitive styles

The correct answer is: Unconscious desires

Trait theorists focus on identifying and measuring the stable characteristics that make up an individual's personality. These characteristics, or traits, can be observed through behavioral tendencies, emotional states, and cognitive styles. Behavioral tendencies refer to consistent patterns in how individuals act across different situations, while emotional states encompass the feelings that consistently influence behavior. Cognitive styles are the ways individuals process information and approach problems, which can also be considered a part of their personality. In contrast, unconscious desires are more aligned with psychodynamic theories of personality, which emphasize the role of the unconscious mind and internal conflicts in shaping behavior. Trait theorists typically do not consider unconscious elements as components of personality because their focus is primarily on observable and measurable traits. This distinction highlights why unconscious desires are not considered a component of personality within the framework of trait theory.