Description:

The Northwestern University Colloquium Series Presents:

Joshua Jackson

Washington University in St. Louis

"How did you become who you are? Three difficult questions"

Abstract: The current talk addresses three challenges to understanding the development of individual differences. First, how can one know whether ‘real’ change in personality occurs? Researchers rarely utilize multiple methods to study personality development, and none have looked at whether broad changes are reflected in objective indicators of personality. As a result, it is unclear if changes in personality manifest as changes in observable behavior. Second, what experiences change personality? While some life events have been associated with changes in personality, the pattern of change suggests that experiences do not have a direct impact in shaping who you are. Third, what does change look like at an individual level? Often, the factors responsible for change are considered idiosyncratic (e.g., that special teacher in high school or that eye-awakening random life event). Can idiographic analyses shed light on personality development? These questions are discussed in the context of six longitudinal studies.

Thursday, May 11, 2017

4:00 pm, Swift Hall 107

Reception to follow