FROM TRAITS TO TESTS: UNDERSTANDING PERSONALITY

Abstract

This chapter provides a comprehensive, global analysis of personality theories and the latest assessment methods. The primary theoretical frameworks—humanistic, trait, psychodynamic, social-cognitive, and narrative perspectives—are first reviewed. There is also discussion of recent extensions and critiques of popular models (e.g., HEXACO, Big Five). Second, attention turns to recent advancements in assessment, including multimodal (text, behaviour, sensor) techniques, longitudinal/resilience-stress related tools, AI-focused inventories, and informant reports. Case studies and empirical data from high-impact journals highlight limitations such as cultural variance and self-report bias while shedding light on how theory and evaluation inform each other.