Toward a paradigm in personality: Comment on Eysenck's (1997) view

Journal/Book: J Personal Soc Psychol. 1997; 73: 750 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242. Amer Psychological Assoc. 1238-1241.

Abstract: The relation of taxonomy and theory in the development of a paradigmatic, scientific knowledge of personality is discussed. Successful taxonomies in chemistry, biology and psychology art briefly cited to illustrate the relation of taxonomy (description) and scientific theory (explanation). From this perspective, it is argued that a descriptive typology can develop without clear knowledge of the causal relation of things, but the proof of the validity of the structure does rest on that theoretical basis, as Eysenck claimed. The greater sensitivity of introverts than extraverts to punctate, physical stimulation is promoted as an effect that may be featured in the explanation of individual differences in the extraversion trait.

Note: Article VS-Card Stelmack RM, Univ Ottawa, Sch Psychol, 408B Montpetit Hall, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, CANADA

Keyword(s): SPINAL MOTONEURONAL EXCITABILITY; AUDITORY EVOKED-RESPONSE; INDIVIDUAL-DIFFERENCES; EXTROVERSION; EXTRAVERSION; INTROVERTS; SENSITIVITY; HABITUATION; AROUSAL; MODEL

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