Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

Which term describes the pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that define an individual?

1. Self-concept

2. Personality traits

3. Identity

4. Self-esteem

The correct answer is: Self-concept

The correct term that describes the pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that define an individual is personality traits. Personality traits refer to consistent patterns in the way individuals think, feel, and behave across various situations and over time. They are the characteristics that influence how a person interacts with their environment and others, providing a framework through which consistent behaviors can be observed. While self-concept pertains to the understanding one has of oneself, including beliefs and perceptions, it doesn't specifically describe the broader pattern of behavior and thought. Identity refers to the distinct characteristics that define a person, encompassing aspects like ethnicity, gender, and roles in society, but it is not as focused on the internal patterns of thoughts and behaviors. Self-esteem connects to one’s sense of self-worth, reflecting how a person values themselves, but it captures more of an evaluative aspect rather than the comprehensive pattern of actions and thoughts. Hence, personality traits accurately encapsulate the defining characteristics of an individual’s psychological makeup.