Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An individual's personality refers to their unique pattern of thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and traits that persist over time across different situations. It encompasses how they perceive themselves and interact with others.
Related terms
Traits Theory: The study of personality focusing on identifying and describing enduring patterns of behavior, thought processes, and emotional responses.
Self-esteem: One's subjective evaluation of their worthiness or value as a person.
Social-Cognitive Approach: An approach to understanding personality that emphasizes the influence of cognitive processes, social experiences, and behavior patterns.