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Which theory suggests that personality can be understood through life narratives?

  1. Behaviorist theories

  2. Humanistic theories

  3. Personological theories

  4. Cognitive theories

The correct answer is: Personological theories

Personological theories focus on understanding personality by examining individuals' unique life narratives. This approach emphasizes the importance of personal experiences and how they shape one's identity and behavior over time. Life narratives encompass the stories that individuals tell about themselves, which provide insight into their motivations, values, and sense of self. By analyzing these narratives, psychologists can gain a deeper understanding of how individuals interpret their experiences, cope with challenges, and define their personal journeys. This makes personological theories particularly valuable in exploring the complexities of human personality in a nuanced and contextual manner. Other theories, while informative about different aspects of personality, do not primarily revolve around life narratives. For example, behaviorist theories concentrate on observable behavior and environmental influences; humanistic theories emphasize self-actualization and personal growth without focusing specifically on narratives; and cognitive theories examine mental processes like thought patterns and problem-solving rather than individual life stories.