MCAT Psych Pulse Ep. 11 – Personality Theories Explained

Описание: Unlock the major personality theories for the MCAT: from Freud’s unconscious drives to the Big Five and Bandura’s self-efficacy. In this Psych Pulse episode, we break down psychoanalytic, humanistic, trait, social-cognitive, biological, and situational perspectives—perfect for test day and real-world insight. Exclusive to MD Talk Studios and the MCAT Mastery Series.


What makes you who you are?


In this episode of Psych Pulse, we dive deep into one of the most foundational topics in psychology: personality theories. A strong grasp of these frameworks isn’t just critical for the MCAT—it’s key to understanding how psychologists interpret human behavior.


🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:


Psychoanalytic vs. Humanistic TheoriesUnderstand the clash between Freud’s conflict-driven unconscious and Rogers’ growth-oriented self-concept. We compare their assumptions about human nature, psychological health, and what it means to live authentically.


The Trait Perspective & the Big FiveAre we just a bundle of stable traits? Explore the strengths and blind spots of trait theory—and when the Big Five model might fall short.


Social-Cognitive TheoryDiscover how Bandura's concepts of self-efficacy and observational learning show that our personalities are not fixed—but shaped by our interactions and beliefs.


Biological Influences on PersonalityHow much of who you are is hardwired? We discuss genetics, neurotransmitters, and how environment and biology constantly interact.


The Situational ApproachContext is king. We examine how environments influence behavior—and why this challenges the idea that personality alone predicts what we do.


🎓 Why This Matters for the MCAT


The MCAT tests more than memorization—it demands critical thinking. Personality theory questions often require comparing perspectives, analyzing experimental data, or applying concepts to case studies. This episode covers high-yield content you’ll need for Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior.


🧪 Sample Study Question from the Episode


Question:How would Bandura’s theory explain why a student becomes more confident after watching a peer successfully answer questions in class?Answer:Through observational learning, the student witnesses a model performing a behavior successfully, which increases their own self-efficacy, making them more likely to engage in similar behavior.


📺 Watch the episodes on YouTube


👉 Watch on YouTube (   / @mdtalkbyyourmd  )


📚 Want the Companion Study Guide?


All our MCAT Pulse episodes come with professionally written study guides, test questions, and summary visuals. Get them delivered straight to your inbox.


Subscribe to MD Talk on Substack for exclusive access to:


Episode transcripts


Downloadable Study Guide (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1U7QG...)


Bonus mini-quizzes in the study guide


Concept Visuals








🎙️ From the Producers


This episode is part of the MCAT Mastery Series, created by MD Talk Studios. Whether you're prepping for the MCAT, reviewing psych concepts, or just curious about what drives human behavior—this series is for you.


Stay curious. Stay sharp. Stay tuned.— The MD Talk Team





This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mdtalk.substack.com/subscribe (https://mdtalk.substack.com/subscribe...)