In the ecosystem model, the individual remains the fundamental unit of analysis, but the lens has changed. We no longer look at traits as static fixities. Instead, we view the individual as a "node" of potential. The focus shifts from what they are to how they connect. Emotional intelligence (EQ), adaptability, and collaborative capacity become more valuable metrics than static personality types.
The internal mechanisms used to manage emotions and impulses. 2. The Relational Level (Microsystem)
"Personology: From Individual to Ecosystem" by Meyer, Moore, and Viljoen is a foundational psychology text exploring theories from depth-psychological approaches to ecosystemic and African perspectives. The work is commonly used in studies for the PYC2601 module, with various editions outlining personality development and theoretical applications. Full digital versions are available for borrowing on the Internet Archive , while academic summaries can be found at Gimmenotes Personology From Individual To Ecosystem PDF - Scribd personology from individual to ecosystem pdf 85 work
The 5th edition provides comprehensive overviews of various psychological paradigms, organized in a structured manner:
This textbook is not merely an academic exercise; it is designed to be applied. A major methodological strength is its consistent emphasis on the practical implications of each theory for everyday living. It integrates research, with a specific focus on studies and case examples drawn from the South African context, providing students with relatable, real-world scenarios. In the ecosystem model, the individual remains the
Personology is a branch of psychology that focuses on the study of the whole person, encompassing their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences. It seeks to understand how individuals develop, adapt, and interact with their environment, and how these interactions shape their personality, well-being, and life outcomes. Personology draws on various theoretical perspectives, including psychodynamic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and ecological theories.
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books. The focus shifts from what they are to how they connect
Mental health and personality balance are tied to harmony between the physical world, the community, and ancestral heritage.
Researchers collect real-time data on moods, behaviors, and environmental contexts multiple times a day, capturing the immediate transactions between the person and their microsystem.
