Articles Index

Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development
Learn more about the stages of Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development. Each stage plays a major role in the development of personality and psychological skills.

The Conscious and Unconscious Mind
According to psychoanalysis, thoughts and motivations outside of our awareness influence our behavior. Learn more about Freud's theory of the conscious and unconscious mind.

The Id, Ego and Superego
According to Freud's psychoanalytic theory of personality, there are three elements of personality--the id, the ego and the superego. Learn more about how these elements work together to influence behavior.

What Is Self-Efficacy?
According to Albert Bandura, self-efficacy plays a critical role in how people think, feel, and behave. Learn more about what self-efficacy is and the role it plays.

Trait Theory of Personality
Trait theory of personality suggests that personality is composed of a number of broad traits. Learn more about the trait theory of personality.

Hierarchy of Needs
The hierarchy of needs emphasizes the importance of self-actualization and is often pictured as a pyramid. Learn more about the five levels in Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

Identity Crisis - Theory and Research
Are you experiencing an identity crisis? According to Erik Erikson, an identity crisis is a period of intense exploration of different identities. Learn more about identity crisis, Erik Erikson, and identity research.

Murray's Theory of Psychogenic Needs
Psychologist Henry Murray proposed a theory of personality based upon a number of psychogenic needs. Learn more about these psychogenic needs and how Murray believed they relate to personality.

Horney's List of Neurotic Needs
Theorist Karen Horney developed a list of neurotic needs that arise from overusing coping strategies to deal with basic anxiety. Learn more about these neurotic needs described by Horney.