Which of the following statements best defines personality according to the psychodynamic perspective?

• A. Personality is a collection of observable traits that remain stable across situations.
• B. Personality is determined solely by genetic inheritance and biological factors.
• C. Personality is a set of learned behaviors acquired through reinforcement and punishment.
• D. Personality is a dynamic system shaped by unconscious motives and early childhood experiences.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the psychodynamic perspective in psychology emphasizes the role of unconscious processes and early experiences in shaping personality.
2. Recognize that this perspective was largely developed by Sigmund Freud and focuses on internal conflicts, unconscious motives, and childhood events as key influences on personality development.
3. Compare the given statements to identify which aligns with the psychodynamic view: observable traits relate more to trait theory, genetic factors to biological perspectives, and learned behaviors to behaviorism.
4. Note that the statement 'Personality is a dynamic system shaped by unconscious motives and early childhood experiences' directly reflects the core ideas of the psychodynamic perspective.
5. Conclude that this statement best defines personality according to the psychodynamic perspective because it highlights unconscious motives and early experiences as central to personality formation.