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The Authoritarian Personality

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The authoritarian personality is a construct that outlines traits like rigid adherence to norms, submission to authority, and aggression towards norm violators. Originating from Theodor Adorno's post-WWII research, it connects dispositional factors to fascist ideologies and obedience. The F-scale measures these tendencies, revealing correlations with prejudice and support for authoritarian regimes, while also considering the role of social context.

Exploring the Authoritarian Personality in Psychological Research

The authoritarian personality is a psychological construct that describes individuals who exhibit a rigid adherence to conventional values, submission to authority, and an inclination towards aggression against those who violate societal norms. This personality type is characterized by a belief in strict social hierarchies and the legitimacy of authority figures, often leading to a lack of critical scrutiny of those in power. Individuals with an authoritarian personality may support leaders and policies that reinforce traditional social roles and divisions, and they may exhibit hostility towards outgroups or individuals perceived as different.
Four professionals engaged in a meeting around a round table with a green plant in the center in a formal setting.

Origins of the Authoritarian Personality Theory

The theory of the authoritarian personality was developed by Theodor Adorno and his colleagues in the aftermath of World War II, as part of an effort to understand the psychological underpinnings of fascism and anti-democratic tendencies. The researchers proposed that certain personality traits predispose individuals to fascist ideologies, which emphasize authoritarianism, aggressive nationalism, and the suppression of opposition. Adorno's work suggested that these traits could be traced back to childhood experiences, particularly those involving harsh and punitive parenting styles that discourage autonomy and promote conformity to established norms.

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00

Those with an authoritarian personality may show ______ towards people who challenge societal ______.

aggression

norms

01

Key proponents of authoritarian personality theory

Theodor Adorno and colleagues

02

Personality traits linked to fascism in the theory

Authoritarianism, aggressive nationalism, suppression of opposition

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