Methods Of Personality Research ? Clinical Vs. Experimental :: essays research papers

The development of personality has long been an atomic number 18a of fundamental interest to psychologists and psychoanalysts alike and many different theories of personality have real over the years. From Sigmund Freud to B.F. Skinner, everyone seems to have not only an opinion of what personality is and how it develops unless also an idea as to what is the best way to measure and piece their findings. In order to test their theories, it was necessary to formulate manners of query that were effective, honest and would provide a solid foundation for future personality investigate.Although both(prenominal) the clinical and experimental methods of personality research have lent themselves to our save day understanding of the human psyche and personality, each has done so in vastly different ways. Freud and his colleagues, who pioneered the clinical research method, chose to observe their clients in an up crocked and personal fashion. A great deal of their research findings came from interviews with psychologically disturbed patients. Personality psychologists who opt for the clinical method of research regard their work as both a method of forum entropy and testing hypothesis as well as an fortune to provide therapy and encourage healing. Therefore, the clinical method is very person lie and allows for a more intimate study of the individual personality.Proponents of the experimental method are equally as dedicated to their methods of research. Not unlike clinical researchers, experimental researchers regard their methods as the best way of gathering information to support hypothesis regarding personality. Although their methods are not as up close and personal as those who study using the clinical method, they are certainly valu competent. Experimental research is often regarded as the best form of research, receivable to its strict adherence to rigid research guidelines. Although neither of these two methods are infallible, each has its own me rits and downfalls. In order to be best able to critique these methods one must have a general familiarity of each method, and an understanding of what has allowed them their staying power in the field of psychological research. The clinical Research MethodThe clinical method of personality research developed literally at the patients bedside. During this time in the life of psychoanalytical research, the subjects were usually afflicted with one type of psychotic disorder or another. This bedside approach to analysis allowed for the psychiatrist or psychologist to observe the patient in their most natural surroundings.