Individual Differences, Personality and Intelligence

This book provides a comprehensive, modern and student-friendly guide to the psychology of human personality, cognitive abilities, mood and motivation. It covers all aspects of the field – from social and biological origins and mechanisms, to measurement, and applications, together with the necessary psychometric theory.The content includes:Theories· Biological social and cognitive origins of personality and abilities, including the “Big Five” traits, emotional intelligence, psychopathy, and schizotypy· Mood and motivation states· Personality and ability change over time· Clinically-relevant models of personalityMethods· Psychometrics, factor analysis, test construction· Principles of behavioural and molecular genetics, network analysisApplications· Education, work and sport· Health, medicine, forensic and clinical psychologyDistinctive features include:· An engaging, non-technical writing style· A description and critical evaluation of theories and empirical studies· Self-assessment questionnaires to check understanding of key concepts· Links to external videos and webpages to amplify content· A focus on evidence-based research· A requirement of minimal mathematical backgroundThe 5th Edition includes a chapter on personality dynamics, differences and change, as well as updated coverage throughout the book, particularly on the biological/genetic underpinnings of personality and intelligence, and their applications. It is written for intermediate or advanced undergraduates studying individual differences, personality, intelligence, education or psychological assessment. Postgraduate students in areas involving psychological assessment -- such as work psychology, educational-psychology and sport -- will also find it valuable. Being self-contained, it is also ideal for students on modular pathways where prior methodological knowledge (e.g., genetics) cannot be assumed.