Can Humans Change?

“Existentialists like Sartre believed we are born without a predetermined essence. We are free to choose who we want to be through our actions, which creates our essence over time.” This highlights the existentialist belief in the power of choice and action in shaping our identity, challenging the notion of a fixed essence.
“The consensus among many psychologists today is that while personality traits have a stable component, they are not entirely fixed.” This reflects the growing understanding within psychology that personality is malleable and can evolve over time, influenced by life experiences and personal efforts.
“Neuroscience also provides insights into the plasticity of the brain, supporting the idea that new experiences, learning, and relationships can rewire the brain in ways that reflect changes in personality and character.” This quote underscores the scientific basis for the potential of personality change, pointing to the adaptability of the brain as a key factor.
“If an individual is looking to change aspects of their personality that they are unhappy with, there are several actionable steps they can take, often involving changes in their environment, behavior, and mindset.” This offers practical advice for individuals seeking to change, emphasizing the role of proactive steps and changes in one’s environment and behaviors.

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Existentialists suggest that we have no essence we are born with and destined to follow. But can humans actually change their personalities and character at any time?

The question of whether humans can change their personalities and character at any time is a nuanced one, touching on fields such as psychology, philosophy, and neuroscience. According to existentialist philosophy, indeed, there’s an emphasis on freedom, choice, and individual agency, suggesting that people are not bound by an inherent essence or predetermined path. This perspective implies that individuals have the capacity to make choices that can lead to changes in their personalities and characters throughout their lives.

In psychology, research on personality change has evolved significantly. The consensus among many psychologists today is that while personality traits have a stable component, they are not entirely fixed. Longitudinal studies have shown that significant life events, therapy, concerted effort, and changing environments can lead to changes in personality traits over time. For example, traits such as openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism (often summarized as the “Big Five” personality traits) can and do change across the lifespan, though the degree and direction of change can vary widely among individuals.

Neuroscience also provides insights into the plasticity of the brain, supporting the idea that new experiences, learning, and relationships can rewire the brain in ways that reflect changes in personality and character. This neuroplasticity is a physical basis for the possibility of change.

However, the ease and extent to which a person can change their personality or character can depend on various factors, including age, the specific traits in question, the individual’s environment, and the efforts they’re willing to put into making a change. Some aspects of personality are more malleable than others, and there may be practical or psychological limits to how much change is feasible.

In summary, while existentialists emphasize the role of individual choice and agency, suggesting that humans are not bound to a pre-determined essence, scientific research supports the notion that personalities and character traits can change, but this change is influenced by a complex interplay of internal and external factors. Change is possible, but it is often gradual and requires effort, intention, and sometimes external support.

Existentialism and psychology offer interesting takes on this.

Existentialists like Sartre believed we are born without a predetermined essence. We are free to choose who we want to be through our actions, which creates our essence over time. [What is existentialism]

Psychology leans towards a mix of nature and nurture. Genetics influence personality, but experiences and choices can also shape it. Research suggests that personality traits can change, especially with effort and through major life events, but core traits tend to be more stable. [Can Someone Really Change Their Behaviors, Traits, and Habits?]

So, can you completely remake yourself at any time? Probably not. But, through consistent effort and potentially transformative experiences, you can definitely develop and refine your personality and character throughout your life.

List and comment on any studies that have measured the rate at and conditions under which humans can change their characters or personalities.

Several key studies and research projects have explored the dynamics of personality change, measuring the rate and conditions under which such changes can occur. Here are a few notable ones:

The Grant Study: This longitudinal study, officially known as the Harvard Study of Adult Development, began in 1938 and tracked the lives of 268 Harvard sophomores. It aimed to identify predictors of healthy aging. Over the decades, the study has provided insights into how personalities can evolve over a lifetime. It showed that while certain traits remain relatively stable, aspects of personality related to emotional regulation and social skills can change significantly, especially influenced by life experiences and personal relationships.
The Terman Study of the Gifted: Starting in 1921, psychologist Lewis Terman followed a group of 1,528 gifted children throughout their lives. This longitudinal study found that while many aspects of personality remain stable, significant life events and experiences, such as marriage, career changes, and war, can lead to personality changes, particularly in terms of social attitudes and behaviors.
The Riversdale Study: A longitudinal study conducted in New Zealand that has tracked the lives of a group of individuals from birth into their 30s. The study has found evidence for both stability and change in personality traits over time. For example, it has documented how traits like conscientiousness can increase during young adulthood, often as a response to taking on new roles that require greater responsibility.
The German Socio-Economic Panel Study: A wide-ranging longitudinal study that has, among other things, tracked personality changes in adults. One of the findings is that personality traits, including openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness, can change significantly in response to major life events, such as unemployment or bereavement.
Research by Roberts, Walton, and Viechtbauer (2006): This meta-analysis reviewed 92 longitudinal studies to examine changes in the Big Five personality traits across the life span. It found evidence for maturity over the life span, with increases in agreeableness and conscientiousness and decreases in neuroticism, extraversion, and openness to experience as people age. The study suggests that personality traits can change through all periods of the life span but may be particularly malleable during young adulthood and late in life.

These studies and others like them underline several important points about personality change:

Longitudinality: Significant insights into personality change come from longitudinal studies that follow individuals over long periods, sometimes across their entire lives.
Influencing Factors: Life experiences, major life events, and changes in social roles or environments are significant drivers of personality change.
Age Trends: There are certain age-related trends in personality change, such as increases in conscientiousness and agreeableness and decreases in neuroticism, suggesting a maturation effect over time.
Individual Differences: There’s considerable individual variation in the rate and direction of personality change, influenced by personal, social, and environmental factors.

These studies collectively suggest that while personalities are somewhat stable over time, they are not fixed and can change under certain conditions, especially in response to new experiences and life events.

Here are some studies that explore the rate and conditions under which personality changes:

Therapy and Personality Change: A 20-week cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program designed for depression showed changes in personality traits, particularly extraversion and neuroticism (Clark et al., 2003). Another study found that mindfulness training for medical students led to shifts in conscientiousness, agreeableness, empathy, and emotional stability (Krasner et al., 2009). These findings suggest that focused interventions can influence specific personality aspects.
Life Events and Personality Shifts: Studies like the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study have tracked people from birth and found personality changes associated with major life events like marriage, parenthood, or career transitions (Caspi et al., 2005). These changes tend to be gradual and may reflect adaptations to new circumstances.
Personality Change Over Time: Research by Robert McCrae and colleagues suggests personality is most malleable in adolescence and young adulthood, with stability increasing over time (McCrae & Costa, 2003). This implies greater potential for significant personality shifts earlier in life.

Points to Consider:

Measurement Challenges: Personality is a complex construct, and measuring change can be tricky. Self-reported personality tests might be influenced by current mood or even a desire to see change.
Nature vs. Nurture: Twin studies show some personality traits have a genetic basis, influencing the rate of change. Someone high in neuroticism (prone to negative emotions) might find it harder to become more optimistic compared to someone with lower neuroticism.
Effort and Consistency: The studies mentioned involved focused interventions or significant life events. Personality change likely requires dedicated effort and consistent behavior over time.

In conclusion, these studies show personality can change, especially with focused interventions, major life events, and during earlier life stages. However, the rate and extent of change are likely influenced by genetics and the effort invested in new behaviors and ways of thinking.

If an individual is looking to change aspects of their personality that they are unhappy with, there are several actionable steps they can take, often involving changes in their environment, behavior, and mindset. The effectiveness of these actions can vary from person to person, but they are generally supported by psychological research:

Seek Professional Help: Engaging in therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective in addressing and modifying thought patterns and behaviors that underlie certain personality traits. Therapists can provide strategies and support for making desired changes.
Set Specific Goals: Identify specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals related to the personality changes you wish to make. For instance, if you want to become more outgoing, you might set a goal to initiate conversations with strangers once a week.
Engage in New Activities: Trying new activities can expose you to different social settings and challenges that encourage growth and change. Joining clubs, taking up new hobbies, or learning new skills can help shift your self-perception and how others perceive you.
Alter Your Social Environment: Your social circle greatly influences your behavior and personality. Spending time with people who embody the traits you aspire to can help you adopt those traits yourself. This might mean making new friends, finding mentors, or minimizing contact with individuals who reinforce the unwanted aspects of your personality.
Practice Mindfulness and Reflection: Regularly practicing mindfulness and self-reflection can increase your awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, making it easier to identify and change patterns that contribute to your current personality traits.
Embrace Positive Habits: Building positive habits that align with your desired personality traits can reinforce changes. For example, if you wish to become more disciplined, establishing a daily routine and sticking to it can be beneficial.
Read and Educate Yourself: Reading books on personal development, psychology, or biographies of people who have made significant life changes can provide inspiration and practical advice on how to change aspects of your personality.
Feedback and Adjust: Seek feedback from trusted friends or family about your progress. They can provide insights into changes they’ve observed and areas where you could improve. Be open to adjusting your strategies based on what’s working and what isn’t.
Physical Health: Maintaining physical health through exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can positively affect your mental health and resilience, facilitating personality changes.
Consistency and Patience: Personality change is a gradual process that requires consistent effort and patience. Recognize and celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

Implementing these actions requires a commitment to self-improvement and an understanding that meaningful change takes time. However, by taking deliberate steps and seeking support when needed, individuals can work towards shedding unwanted personality traits and fostering new ones that better align with their values and goals.

If you’re looking to accelerate positive personality changes, here are some strategies that combine environmental changes, effortful actions, and potential professional help:

Identify Specific Traits: First, pinpoint the personality traits you want to adjust. Are you aiming to be more outgoing (extroversion)? More organized (conscientiousness)? More open to new experiences? Specificity helps tailor your approach.
Craft a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with people who embody the traits you admire. Join clubs or activities that encourage desired behaviors. For example, if you want to be more social, join a volunteer group or a sports team.
Challenge Yourself Gradually: Step outside your comfort zone, but in small, manageable ways. If shyness holds you back, try striking up short conversations with cashiers or baristas. Gradually increase the duration and complexity of social interactions.
Practice Positive Self-Talk: Combat negative self-beliefs that might hinder progress. When you achieve a goal, acknowledge your effort and celebrate the positive change.
Habit Building: Focus on building new habits that support your desired personality shift. Want to be more conscientious? Set daily reminders for tasks or create a morning routine. Repetition is key to making new behaviors automatic.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Consider seeking professional help from a therapist specializing in CBT. CBT helps identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more constructive ones, which can influence behaviors and personality traits. [What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?]
Life Coaching: Life coaches can provide support and accountability as you work towards your goals. They can help you create a personalized plan and track your progress.

Remember:

Patience is Key: Significant personality changes take time and consistent effort. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks, view them as learning opportunities.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge even small victories. This reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated.
Professional Help: If you struggle to make progress on your own, a therapist or life coach can offer valuable guidance and support.

By combining environmental changes, focused effort, and potentially seeking professional help, you can accelerate your journey towards a personality that aligns better with who you want to be.

It has been suggested that those who make changes without dependence on others, such as a therapist, often change faster and more permanently. To what degree is this true?

The suggestion that individuals who make changes without depending on others, such as a therapist, often change faster and more permanently is a topic of some debate and can vary greatly depending on the individual and the specific changes they are trying to make. There are several factors to consider when evaluating the truth of this statement:

Autonomy and Self-Determination

Self-Motivation: Changes that are self-initiated and driven by personal motivation might be more meaningful and integrated into one’s self-concept, potentially leading to more lasting change. This aligns with the principles of self-determination theory, which emphasizes the role of autonomy in motivating and sustaining changes in behavior and personality.
Personal Responsibility: Individuals who take personal responsibility for their change process may feel a greater sense of ownership and commitment to the outcomes, possibly leading to faster and more permanent changes.

The Role of External Support

Guidance and Expertise: While autonomy is crucial, the expertise and guidance of professionals like therapists can accelerate the change process by providing strategies, insights, and support that individuals might not be able to access on their own. Therapists can help navigate obstacles and offer evidence-based interventions that might not be intuitively obvious.
Accountability and Support: External support, whether from therapists, mentors, or support groups, can also provide accountability and encouragement, which are significant factors in sustaining motivation and overcoming setbacks.

Complexity of Change

Simple vs. Complex Changes: The complexity of the desired change plays a significant role. Simple behavioral modifications might be more easily achieved independently, whereas more profound personality changes or issues stemming from deep-seated psychological conditions may benefit significantly from professional intervention.
Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Traits: Changes related to adaptive traits or behaviors (e.g., becoming more organized) might be easier to achieve independently than changes related to maladaptive traits or behaviors (e.g., overcoming anxiety disorders), which often require specialized interventions.

Research and Evidence

Lack of Consensus: Research on the effectiveness of independent versus supported change efforts is mixed, with outcomes heavily dependent on the context, the nature of the change, and individual differences. Some individuals thrive with independence, leveraging self-help resources effectively, while others achieve better results with structured support.

In summary, whether individuals change faster and more permanently with or without the dependence on a therapist or external support varies. While self-driven change can be powerful and lasting, especially when the individual is highly motivated and the goals are clearly defined, the complexity of human behavior and psychology often means that professional guidance can significantly enhance the process. The optimal approach may involve a balance between autonomous effort and professional support, tailored to the individual’s needs, circumstances, and the specific changes they wish to achieve.

There’s some truth to the idea that self-directed change can be faster and more permanent, but it’s not a clear-cut case. Here’s a breakdown of the factors involved:

Advantages of Self-Directed Change:

Ownership and Motivation: Taking charge of your own change can increase your sense of ownership and intrinsic motivation. This can lead to a stronger commitment to seeing things through.
Tailored Approach: You can design a plan that specifically addresses your needs and preferences, potentially leading to faster initial progress.
Reduced Stigma: Some people may feel uncomfortable seeking therapy, so self-directed change avoids that barrier.

Disadvantages of Self-Directed Change:

Lack of Expertise: Therapists are trained professionals with experience in guiding personality change. They can offer objective insights, identify blind spots, and suggest strategies you might not have considered on your own.
Accountability Partner: Therapists provide accountability and support, which can be crucial for staying on track and overcoming challenges.
Emotional Hurdles: Deep-seated personality traits might be linked to unresolved emotional issues. Therapists can help uncover and address these underlying issues to facilitate lasting change.

Factors to Consider for Faster and More Permanent Change:

Complexity of Change: For relatively simple changes, like building a new habit, self-directed approaches might be sufficient. However, addressing more complex personality shifts often benefits from professional guidance.
Self-Awareness: Highly self-aware individuals who can identify their triggers and thought patterns might achieve success through self-directed work. Those with lower self-awareness might need a therapist’s help for deeper self-discovery.
Support System: Having a supportive network of friends and family who encourage your goals can significantly improve the success rate of self-directed change.

In Conclusion:

Self-directed change can be effective, particularly for motivated individuals with clear goals and a strong support system. However, therapy can significantly enhance the process by providing expertise, accountability, and addressing underlying emotional issues. It’s not an “either/or” situation. Sometimes a combination of self-directed effort and professional guidance leads to the fastest and most lasting personality changes.

I have a friend who quite rapidly got over his shyness by forcing himself to speak to a random girl everyday. Is this “brute force” method encouraged?

Your friend’s approach to overcoming shyness by forcing himself to speak to a random girl every day is an example of what is known as “exposure therapy” in psychological terms. Exposure therapy is a technique in behavior therapy intended to help people confront their fears directly. The rationale is that through repeated exposures, the person becomes more accustomed to the situation that causes anxiety, leading to a reduction in fearful responses over time.

This method can be effective for overcoming social anxiety or shyness, and it is based on the principles of classical conditioning and habituation. By repeatedly facing the feared social situation without experiencing the anticipated negative outcomes, the person’s anxiety response can decrease.

Points to Consider

Individual Differences: This approach may not work for everyone. Success can vary depending on the individual’s personality, the severity of their shyness, and their coping mechanisms. For some, this “brute force” method might cause more anxiety at first.
Gradual Exposure: Professionals often recommend a more graded approach to exposure, starting with less intimidating interactions and gradually increasing the challenge as the individual becomes more comfortable. This can help prevent overwhelming anxiety that might deter progress.
Support and Strategies: While going it alone can work for some, others might benefit from additional support, such as cognitive-behavioral strategies to manage anxiety or the encouragement of a therapist or support group. These resources can provide tools for dealing with setbacks and building social skills.
Safety and Respect: It’s important to ensure that this approach is conducted in a respectful and appropriate manner, considering the comfort and consent of others involved in these interactions.
Reflection and Learning: Combining exposure with reflection on the experiences can enhance learning and adjustment. This might involve noting what went well, what could be improved, and how their feelings change over time.

Is it Encouraged?

While the “brute force” method your friend used can be effective and is a form of encouraged psychological practice in controlled environments, it’s important to tailor the approach to the individual’s needs and comfort levels. Mental health professionals typically recommend a structured and gradual form of exposure therapy that takes into account the person’s psychological well-being, ensuring that the method is not causing undue distress or anxiety.

For those considering similar self-imposed challenges to overcome shyness or social anxiety, it might be beneficial to start slowly, set manageable goals, and seek professional advice if needed. This can help ensure that the process is both effective and psychologically safe.

Your friend’s experience is interesting, and the “brute force” method can have some merit, but it’s not a guaranteed path for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

Exposure Therapy: The core idea is similar to exposure therapy, a technique used in CBT. Regularly forcing yourself into social situations can gradually desensitize you to anxiety and build confidence.
Quick Wins: For some people, this method can lead to rapid initial progress. Talking to someone new every day can quickly expand your social circle and boost self-esteem.

Cons:

Quality vs. Quantity: Focusing solely on quantity of interactions might neglect the quality of those interactions. Meaningful conversations are more valuable than just forcing small talk.
Burnout and Backlash: Constantly pushing yourself outside your comfort zone can lead to burnout and negative social experiences. This could reinforce feelings of inadequacy.
Inauthenticity: Approaching strangers solely to overcome shyness can feel inauthentic and create unnecessary pressure.

Alternatives to Consider:

Start Smaller: Instead of random people, begin by striking up conversations with acquaintances or cashiers. Gradually increase the complexity of interactions as you gain confidence.
Focus on Quality: Aim for meaningful conversations, not just the number of people you talk to. Ask questions, listen actively, and find common ground.
Join Social Groups: Join clubs, volunteer groups, or online communities based on your interests. This provides a natural environment to connect with like-minded people.
Seek Professional Help: A therapist can help identify the root of your shyness and develop a personalized strategy for overcoming it. They can also teach social skills and strategies for managing social anxiety.

Overall:

Your friend’s experience might not be universally applicable. For some, the “brute force” method can be a starting point, but it’s important to focus on quality interactions, build confidence gradually, and consider other approaches for long-term success. If shyness is significantly impacting your life, consider seeking professional help from a therapist.

What conditions such as autism and Asperger’s constitute an essence one is lock into that makes an existential departure from that essence difficult?

The notion of “essence” as something one is locked into, particularly in the context of existentialist philosophy, contrasts with the view of conditions like autism and Asperger’s Syndrome (now more commonly referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, in the DSM-5). Existentialists argue that essence, or the nature of being, is not predetermined but is rather defined by the individual’s actions and choices over time. However, when discussing neurological conditions such as ASD, it’s essential to differentiate between the existentialist interpretation of essence and the biological or neurological aspects that influence behavior, cognition, and personality.

Autism Spectrum Disorder and Essence

Neurological Foundation: ASD is characterized by differences in brain development and functioning, affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior. These neurological differences are present from birth or early childhood and are integral to the individual’s cognitive and perceptual experiences of the world.
Inherent Characteristics: While existentialists may argue against a fixed essence, conditions like ASD can be seen as inherent aspects of an individual’s being. They shape how individuals perceive, interact with, and respond to their environment from a very early age, influencing their development and personality.
Change and Growth: Individuals with ASD can and do experience personal growth and change over time. Interventions, therapies, and personal experiences can lead to significant improvements in communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors. However, the core neurological aspects of ASD remain a consistent part of the individual’s makeup.
Essence vs. Identity: From an existential perspective, the concept of essence as something immutable is challenged by the idea of personal agency and freedom. Individuals with ASD, like all individuals, have the capacity for self-awareness, choice, and personal development. Their condition may present challenges and influence their experiences, but it does not predetermine their essence in the existential sense.
Navigating the World: Individuals with ASD may find certain existential departures more challenging due to the nature of their condition, such as adapting to social norms or understanding unspoken social cues. However, this does not mean they are locked into an unchangeable essence. Many find unique ways to engage with the world, form meaningful relationships, and pursue their interests and goals.

Conclusion

While conditions like ASD have inherent neurological aspects that influence an individual’s interaction with the world, the existentialist view of essence as something fluid and constructed through experience suggests that individuals always have some degree of agency in shaping their lives. It’s important to recognize the distinction between neurological or biological aspects of a condition and the existential concept of essence. The challenges presented by conditions like ASD are real and can affect one’s experiences and opportunities, but they do not eliminate the individual’s capacity for growth, change, and personal definition.

You’re right, existentialism and psychology offer different perspectives on personality change, and some conditions can make significant personality shifts more challenging. Here’s a breakdown on how autism and Asperger’s factor in:

Existentialism and Essence

Existentialists like Sartre argue we have no predetermined essence. We are free to define ourselves through our choices and actions. This suggests that even with inherent challenges, we have the freedom to choose how we approach the world.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Asperger’s Syndrome

ASD is a spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by social and communication challenges, along with repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Asperger’s Syndrome is sometimes considered part of the ASD spectrum, though the diagnosis is evolving.

People with ASD may experience the world differently due to variations in brain structure and function. This can affect social interactions, communication styles, and sensory processing.

Challenges to Personality Change

Core Traits: ASD is characterized by core traits like social awkwardness and difficulty with abstract concepts. These traits can be difficult to fundamentally alter.
Social Integration: Social interaction can be inherently challenging for people with ASD. This can limit opportunities to develop social skills and confidence, which are important for personality development.

However, Change is Possible

Therapy and Support: Therapy, social skills training, and support groups can significantly improve social interaction and communication in individuals with ASD. This can indirectly influence personality by enhancing self-confidence and expanding social circles.
Strength-Based Approach: People with ASD often have unique strengths and talents. Focusing on developing these strengths and finding fulfilling activities can contribute to a positive sense of self.

Key Points:

ASD presents inherent challenges to personality change, especially regarding core social traits.
Existential freedom suggests individuals can choose how they navigate the world within their circumstances.
Therapy, support, and focusing on strengths can all contribute to positive personality development in ASD.

Additional Notes:

The concept of a fixed essence is debated in both philosophy and psychology. While ASD presents challenges, people with ASD can still develop and grow throughout their lives.

It’s important to remember that ASD is a spectrum, and individuals experience it differently. If you or someone you know has ASD and is looking to make changes, consulting with a healthcare professional or therapist specializing in ASD can be a valuable first step.

Create a 10-item quiz on the discussion above with answers at the end.

Sure, here’s a 10-item quiz based on our discussion above, with answers provided at the end:

Quiz: Existentialism, Personality Change, and Autism Spectrum Disorder

1. According to existentialists, is human essence pre-determined at birth?
A) Yes
B) No
C) Only partially
D) It varies from person to person

2. Can personality traits change over time according to psychological research?
A) Yes, but only during childhood
B) No, they are fixed at birth
C) Yes, throughout the lifespan
D) Only during elderly age

3. Which therapy is mentioned as effective in modifying thought patterns and behaviors?
A) Psychoanalysis
B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
C) Aromatherapy
D) Music therapy

4. What kind of study provides significant insights into how personalities can evolve over a lifetime?
A) Cross-sectional studies
B) Longitudinal studies
C) Experimental studies
D) Case studies

5. What is a key factor in personality change, especially in adulthood?
A) Major life events
B) Early childhood experiences
C) Genetic factors
D) Peer pressure

6. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) characterized by?
A) Differences in brain development and functioning
B) A fixed and unchangeable essence
C) A lack of personal agency
D) Inability to experience growth or change

7. What approach did the friend use to overcome shyness, as mentioned in the discussion?
A) Avoidance
B) Exposure therapy
C) Medication
D) Hypnosis

8. Which of the following is NOT a recommended action for someone trying to change their personality?
A) Seeking professional help
B) Engaging in new activities
C) Waiting for personality changes to happen on their own
D) Practicing mindfulness and reflection

9. Are individuals with ASD capable of experiencing personal growth and change?
A) Yes
B) No
C) Only with medication
D) Only in childhood

10. What does the existentialist view suggest about individuals’ capacity for shaping their lives?
A) It is predetermined and unchangeable
B) It is limited to early childhood
C) Individuals have a degree of agency in shaping their lives
D) It is entirely dependent on social influences

Answers:

B) No
C) Yes, throughout the lifespan
B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
B) Longitudinal studies
A) Major life events
A) Differences in brain development and functioning
B) Exposure therapy
C) Waiting for personality changes to happen on their own
A) Yes
C) Individuals have a degree of agency in shaping their lives

Quiz: Personality and Change

Instructions: Select the best answer for each question.

According to existentialism, what determines who we are? a) Our genetics b) Our choices and actions c) Societal expectations d) A combination of the above
Studies suggest that personality is most malleable during what life stage? a) Early childhood b) Adolescence and young adulthood c) Middle age d) Later adulthood
Which of these is a potential benefit of therapy for personality change? a) Increased self-awareness b) Development of coping mechanisms c) Both a and b d) Neither a nor b
What is a potential drawback of the “brute force” method for overcoming shyness? a) It focuses too much on quality interactions. b) It can lead to burnout and negative social experiences. c) It requires joining social groups. d) It is not effective for everyone.
What is a core trait associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? a) High extroversion b) Difficulty with social interaction c) Increased need for organization d) All of the above
How can therapy potentially help individuals with ASD experience personality development? a) By directly changing core traits b) By improving social skills and confidence c) By focusing solely on weaknesses d) Therapy is not effective for personality development in ASD
Which of these is an advantage of self-directed change for personality development? a) Access to professional expertise b) Increased sense of ownership and motivation c) Reduced stigma associated with seeking help d) All of the above
What is a potential challenge of self-directed change for personality development? a) Lack of accountability b) Difficulty identifying blind spots c) Both a and b d) Neither a nor b
In the context of personality change, what does “nature vs. nurture” refer to? a) Internal motivations vs. external influences b) The role of genetics vs. environment c) Therapy vs. self-directed change d) Medication vs. lifestyle changes
The passage suggests that for some people, the most effective approach to personality development is likely to involve: a) Therapy only b) Self-directed change only c) A combination of therapy and self-directed change d) Medication and lifestyle changes

Answer Key

(b)
(b)
(c)
(b)
(b)
(b)
(b) & (c)
(c)
(b)
(c)

Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

Certainly! Here are 15 discussion questions that delve into the themes and topics we’ve covered:

Existentialism and Essence: How does the existentialist belief that essence is not pre-determined at birth challenge traditional views of personality and identity?
Personality Change: What implications does the possibility of lifelong personality change have for understanding human development?
Role of Therapy: In what ways can cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) contribute to personality change, and why might it be effective?
Longitudinal Studies: How do longitudinal studies provide unique insights into personality development compared to other types of research?
Major Life Events: Discuss how major life events can serve as catalysts for personality change. Can these changes be predicted or guided?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): How does the understanding of ASD as a difference in brain development challenge societal perceptions of normalcy and disability?
Exposure Therapy: Evaluate the ethical considerations and potential risks of using “brute force” methods like exposure therapy to overcome social anxiety or shyness.
Self-initiated Change: Discuss the statement that changes made independently, without professional help, can sometimes be faster and more permanent. What factors might influence this?
Neurological Conditions and Existential Freedom: To what extent can individuals with neurological conditions such as ASD exercise existential freedom and personal agency?
Inherent Characteristics vs. Personal Growth: How do inherent neurological conditions like ASD interact with the existentialist idea of creating one’s essence through choices and actions?
Social Environment’s Role in Personality Change: How does changing one’s social environment potentially accelerate personality development or change?
Mindfulness and Self-reflection: Why are mindfulness and self-reflection important for individuals seeking to change aspects of their personality or character?
Autonomy in Change: Discuss the role of autonomy and self-determination in the process of personal change. Is external support always beneficial, or can it sometimes hinder progress?
Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Traits: How can the distinction between adaptive and maladaptive traits influence strategies for personal change or development?
Existentialism and Neurodiversity: How does existentialism accommodate or speak to the concept of neurodiversity, including conditions like ASD?

Discussion Prompts: Personality and Change

Existentialism vs. Science: Existentialism suggests we create our essence through choices. How does this idea of a fluid personality compare to the scientific view of personality traits having some basis in genetics?
Ideal vs. Realistic Change: The passage discussed personality change. Can we truly change fundamental aspects of ourselves, or are we better off adapting and working within our existing personality framework?
Rate of Change: Studies suggest personality is most malleable in youth. Does this mean significant personality shifts become less likely as we age, or can we still make substantial changes later in life?
Therapy vs. Self-Help: The discussion offered pros and cons of therapy and self-directed change. When would therapy be the better option for personality development, and when might self-help suffice?
Comfort Zone vs. Growth: Overcoming shyness was used as an example. How do we balance the discomfort of stepping outside our comfort zone for growth with the importance of self-compassion and avoiding burnout?
The Power of Environment: The passage discussed creating a supportive environment for change. How can we use our living spaces, social circles, and daily routines to actively influence our personality development?
Motivation and Goals: What are some strategies for staying motivated and focused on long-term personality changes when faced with setbacks or a lack of immediate results?
The Role of Failure: Many experts emphasize the importance of failing as part of the learning process. How can we view challenges and setbacks encountered while trying to change our personalities as opportunities for growth?
Personality and Happiness: Is there a specific personality type or set of traits that leads to greater happiness? Or is happiness more about adapting your personality to find fulfillment within your circumstances?
Personality Change and Relationships: How can changes in our personalities impact our existing relationships? What strategies can help us navigate these changes with our loved ones?
The Dark Side of Change: While positive change is often the goal, are there any potential downsides to significantly altering one’s personality? What potential risks might there be?
Change and Authenticity: Can striving to change aspects of ourselves feel inauthentic? How can we ensure that personality development remains true to our core values and sense of self?
Personality Change and Mental Health: The discussion focused on personality in general. How do the challenges of changing personality differ for people struggling with mental health conditions like anxiety or depression?
The Ethics of Change: Is it ever ethical to pressure someone to change their personality? Where do we draw the line between personal growth and external manipulation?
The Pursuit of an Ideal Self: Our society often promotes the idea of an “ideal self” to strive for. How can we navigate personality development without getting caught up in unrealistic expectations or societal pressures?