Review explores the four main components—preconditions, triggers, reinforcers, and integrators—that facilitate personality change, alongside forces that maintain stability and prevent significant alterations in personality.
By Dr. Chinta SidharthanMar 19 2024Reviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc. In a recent review published in the journal Nature Reviews Psychology, scientists discussed the four mechanistic aspects — preconditions, triggers, reinforcers, and integrators — that bring about effective personality change and the forces that prevent long-lasting personality changes by promoting stability.
While the researchers state that biological and genetic mechanisms also contribute to personality changes, this review focuses on the environmental mechanisms that bring about alterations in personality. The review also examines the mechanisms that limit potential changes to personality by promoting stability. Empirical evidence from studies examining interventions and life events was also reviewed to understand better the processes that bring about personality changes.
Related StoriesThe contexts or circumstances that enable change are known as preconditions. Intentional changes to personality require the motivation or desire to change, either to achieve other goals or the change in itself being the goal. The researchers believe that sustained and broad personality changes cannot be brought about if the individual does not enact the changes that they desire.