This course examines a number of theories of personality, including the key theorists and concepts associated with each theory, along with the strengths and limitations of each theory.
Outline
Unit 1: Introduction
Unit 2: Psychodynamic Theories
Freud, Adler, Jung, Klein, Horney, Erikson, Fromm
Unit 3: Humanistic/Existential Theories
Maslow, Rogers, May
Unit 4: Dispositional Theories
Allport, McCrae and Costa
Unit 5: Biological/Evolutionary Theories
Eysenck, Buss
Unit 6: Learning-Cognitive Theories
Skinner, Bandura, Rotter and Mischel, Kelly
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of PSYC 356, students will be able to achieve the following learning outcomes:
discuss the primary emphasis of each specific personality theory as well as the range and limitations of its applications,
recognize and clearly define the key terms and concepts relevant to each theory,
explain the elements of each major theory or approach to personality and compare and contrast them, and
synthesize the broad scope of the field and demonstrate written skills of course integration and sound critical analysis.
Evaluation
To receive credit for the course, you must complete all quizzes and essays, receive a grade of 50 percent or better on the final assignment, and a composite course grade of at least D (50 percent). The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:
Activity
Weight
5 Quizzes
5 x 5% = 25%
Essay 1
12%
Essay 2
13%
Essay 3
15%
Final Assignment
35%
Total
100%
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.
Materials
Feist, G. J., Roberts, T.-A., & Feist, J. (2021). Theories of personality (10th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education. (eText)
Whedon, J. (Director). (2015). Avengers: Age of Ultron [Film]. Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Pictures. (Audio/Video)
The challenge for credit process allows you to demonstrate that you have acquired a command of the general subject matter, knowledge, intellectual and/or other skills that would normally be found in a university-level course.
Full information about challenge for credit can be found in the Undergraduate Calendar.
Evaluation
To receive credit for the PSYC 356 challenge registration, you must achieve a grade of at least 50 percent on the online exam and obtain a composite mark of at least D (50 percent) to pass.
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized study counterparts.