Gordon Allport was a renowned psychologist who developed a theory of personality that focused on the individual's unique psychological makeup. According to Allport, personality is the "dynamic organization within the individual of those psychophysical systems that determine his characteristics behavior and thought" (Allport, 1937). In other words, personality is the sum of all the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make up an individual's unique character.
Allport's theory of personality is based on the idea that individuals have a unique set of traits that are responsible for their behavior and personality. These traits are relatively stable over time and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Allport identified several categories of traits, including central traits, which are the most important and defining characteristics of an individual, and secondary traits, which are less important and may vary more from person to person.
Allport also believed that individuals have a unique set of values that guide their behavior and decision-making. These values are based on an individual's experiences, goals, and beliefs, and they play a central role in shaping an individual's personality.
One of the key features of Allport's theory is the idea that individuals are motivated by their needs and goals. According to Allport, individuals are driven by their basic needs, such as the need for food, shelter, and security, as well as higher-level needs, such as the need for love, achievement, and self-actualization. These needs motivate individuals to pursue certain goals and engage in certain behaviors, which in turn contribute to their overall personality.
Another important aspect of Allport's theory is the concept of self-actualization, which refers to the individual's desire to fulfill their full potential and become the best version of themselves. Allport believed that self-actualization is a universal human desire and that individuals are constantly striving to achieve it.
In summary, Allport's theory of personality is centered on the idea that individuals have a unique set of traits, values, and needs that shape their behavior and personality. These traits, values, and needs are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors and are motivated by the individual's desire to fulfill their full potential and become the best version of themselves.