Individual Differences

No two individuals are exactly alike they differ from each other in one way or the other.  Such similarities or differences among individuals reveal individual differences. These Individual differences are often explained in terms of enduring psychological characteristics. 

Individual differences can be defined as the differences among human beings that separates them from one another and makes them a single unique individual. The study of these individual differences is called trait or differential psychology.

This study helps us in understanding the factors that are distinguishing human beings among themselves.

Types of Individual differences

1. Physical traits:

Weight, height, built, facial expressions, appearance and health etc.

2. Mental traits:

IQ of an individual

3. Special capacities:

Musical, mechanical, artistic, and social aptitudes (introvert/extrovert etc.).

4. Acquired interest:

Knowledge and technical skill.

5. Temperament:

Emotional tendencies and behavior like nervous stability. (Emotional responses)

6. Character:

Reaction tendencies towards situations involving moral, ethical and religious codes and other socially approved standards of conduct, such as decent, humane, honest, unselfish etc.

Causes of Individual Differences:

There are various causes which are responsible in bringing individual differences.

• Heredity
• Environment
• Sex/Gender
• Age
• Education
• Culture