Psychodynamic + Humanistic Theories
Social-Cognitive + Trait Theories
Motivation Theories
Theories of Emotion
Defense Mechanisms
100

Max has a strong urge to cheat on a test, but his conscience tells him it would be wrong. Which part of his personality, according to Freud + Psychodynamic Psych, is responsible for this inner conflict?

Superego

100

After struggling with math for years, Olivia believes she will never be good at it, no matter how much she studies. According to Bandura’s social-cognitive theory, what is she lacking?

Self-efficacy

100

After skipping breakfast, Mark feels an intense need to eat lunch. Once he eats, he feels satisfied again. Which motivation theory best explains this process?

Drive-Reduction Theory

100

After nearly being hit by a car, Jake's heart races, and then he feels fear. Which theory of emotion explains this reaction?

Successive Experience Theory

100

After being scolded by his boss, Nick comes home and yells at his younger brother. What defense mechanism is he using?

Displacement

200

Michael is working hard in therapy to become his “best self” by aligning his real self with his ideal self. Which psychological theory of personality best explains this goal?

Humanistic

200

Which of the Big Five personality traits would likely be high in a person who is organized, disciplined, and goal-oriented?

Conscientiousness

200

Cameron studies hard for a test because he enjoys the subject, while Jamie studies only because she wants a good grade. Which type of motivation does Cameron display?

Intrinsic Motivation

200

Rebecca’s heart pounds and she feels fear at the exact same time when she sees a bear. Which theory of emotion explains this?

Simultaneous Experience Theory

200

than has an unconscious attraction to his best friend’s girlfriend, but he insists that his friend has feelings for his own girlfriend instead. What defense mechanism is at play?

Projection

300

Even though she failed her driving test, Taylor insists that the test was unfair and that the instructor was out to get her. According to Freud + Psychodynamic Psych, which defense mechanism is she using?

Rationalization

300

David is extremely shy at parties and rarely starts conversations. People assume he is unfriendly, so they avoid talking to him, which makes him feel even more socially anxious. What social-cognitive concept does this illustrate?

Reciprocal Determinism

300

Sasha is terrified of skydiving but signs up anyway because she knows it will be thrilling. Which motivation theory explains why people seek excitement and risk-taking activities?

Arousal Theory

300

A student forces themselves to smile during a stressful test and suddenly feels calmer and more confident. What psychological principle explains this?

Facial Feedback Hypothesis

300

After a difficult breakup, Sarah refuses to acknowledge that her relationship has ended and continues to talk about future plans with her ex. Which defense mechanism does this illustrate?

Denial

400

Jake often yells at his friends and acts impulsively, rarely considering the consequences of his actions. According to Freud, which part of his personality is dominating his behavior?

Id

400

According to trait theory, which of the Big Five personality traits would be highest in someone who enjoys new experiences, is highly imaginative, and is open to different viewpoints?

Openness to Experience

400

Henry is debating whether to accept a job offer. The job pays well but requires long hours and lots of stress. Which of Lewin’s motivational conflicts is Henry experiencing?

Approach-Avoidance Conflict

400

Ben is about to go on stage for a performance. His heart races, and he interprets this as excitement rather than fear. Which theory of emotion does this illustrate?

Cognitive Label Needed Theory

400

After getting cut from the basketball team, Jacob redirects his frustration into practicing every day and eventually earns a spot the following year. Which defense mechanism is he using?

Sublimation

500

A therapist asks their client to describe their thoughts about an ambiguous inkblot. What type of personality assessment is the therapist using, and which theory does it align with?

Rorschach Inkblot Test, Psychodynamic Theory

500

A researcher studies personality traits by analyzing patterns in responses to a long list of personality-related questions. She identifies clusters of related traits that frequently appear together. What statistical method is she using?

Factor Analysis

500

Marissa runs every morning, not because she enjoys it, but because she knows it will help her lose weight and feel more confident. Which motivation theory explains this?

Incentive Theory
500

Which concept explains why people in different cultures express emotions in socially acceptable ways, such as Japanese individuals suppressing public expressions of anger?

Display Rules

500

Despite experiencing extreme stress at work, Emma remains outwardly calm and emotionless, refusing to acknowledge how overwhelmed she feels. Instead of expressing her anxiety, she unconsciously buries it and continues working as if nothing is wrong. What defense mechanism is she using?

Repression

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