In this article, we will discuss What is Nomothetic Approach?
Define Nomothetic Approach.
The Nomothetic Approach is based on the tendency to see one’s personality as constant, hereditary and resistant to change, whereas the influence of the environment is minimal. This way, nomothetic approaches state that how a person will act under certain circumstances can be calculated and anticipated, foreseen. Gordon Allport identified this approach to personality testing. The nomothetic approach relies on quantitative research methods such as self-reports and questionnaires to establish universal behaviours. He understood that scientific progress for trait psychology was rooted in a nomothetic approach.
Thus, nomothetic derived traits were employed by Allport to describe people. Allport employed traits as the primary basis which can be used to describe people. Accordingly, he described a trait as a “neuropsychic structure that possesses the capacity to render many stimuli functionally equivalent.” Allport also assumed that traits are real. He formulated that traits are distinct and particular to each person and their assessment shall be done uniquely.
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