Abstract

Personality theory is a branch of psychology which examines personality as integral to the psychological processes of functioning and psychopathology. There are different areas of personality theory, such as the roots of personality in the individual, and the role of personality in achieving happiness, productivity, etc. The core of all personality research is centered around the question of nature versus nurture. The fundamental question is whether personality is a "naturally" derived thing hardwired in at birth or as socialized through the "nurturing" of the parent in youth. Secondary to this question, though working quite in conjunction, is that of whether or not personality is a stable thing over one's lifespan, or if it is something which can be changed and molded.