Singapore University of Social Sciences

Personality and Individual Differences

Personality and Individual Differences (PSY259)

Applications Open: 01 May 2023

Applications Close: 15 June 2023

Next Available Intake: July 2023

Course Types: Modular Undergraduate Course

Language: English

Duration: 6 months

Fees: $1378 View More Details on Fees

Area of Interest: Humanities & Social Sciences

Schemes: Alumni Continuing Education (ACE), Lifelong Learning Credit (L2C)

Funding: To be confirmed

School/Department: School of Humanities & Behavioural Sciences


Synopsis

This module surveys six different approaches to the psychology of personality: the psychoanalytic approach, the trait approach, the biological approach, the humanistic approach, the behavioral/social learning approach, and the cognitive approach. While the major theories of each approach will be covered in some details, the knowledge gained in this module ought to serve as a foundation for further study into the subject. The learning journey will include pre-recorded lectures, interactive and instructive online resources, discussion forums and quizzes. These materials are designed to enhance one’s understanding of the key theories covered in the module. It is also meant to stimulate thought and ability to apply newfound knowledge to real-life cases and ongoing research on personality.

Level: 2
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every semester
E-Learning: BLENDED - Learning is done MAINLY online using interactive study materials in Canvas. Students receive guidance and support from online instructors via discussion forums and emails. This is supplemented with SOME face-to-face sessions. If the course has an exam component, this will be administered on-campus.

Topics

  • SU1(1) – An Overview of Personality & Its Research Methods
  • SU1(2) – The Psychoanalytic Approach: Freudian Theory
  • SU1(3) – The Psychoanalytic Approach: Neo-Freudian Theory
  • SU2(4) – The Trait Approach
  • SU2(5) – The Biological Approach
  • SU2(6) – The Humanistic Approach
  • SU3(7) – The Behavioural/ Social Learning Approach
  • SU3(8) – The Cognitive Approach

Learning Outcome

  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the six perspectives in personality psychology
  • Discuss the major theories and relevant research findings.
  • Compare the strengths and limitations of the major theories.
  • Differentiate among the different perspectives and evaluate how key assumptions in each approach differentially account for individual differences.
  • Examine how new insights gleaned from the various approaches contribute to an understanding of human behaviour and mental processes.
  • Recognise the extent to which traditions and major theories in personality direct trends in current research.
  • Apply theoretical concepts from personality to case studies.
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