1. Introduction to the psychology of individual differences: an outline of the history of the psychology of individual differences, the concept of individual differences, and the subject of research in this field. Precursors of the psychology of individual differences.
2. Areas of interest in the study of individual differences and basic categories used to describe them (trait, dimension, type, factor, style). Research methods in the psychology of individual differences.
3. The concept of temperament. Child-oriented theories of temperament (including the interactional theory of temperament, the developmental model, inhibited and uninhibited temperament, and the behavioral-genetic theory of temperament).
4. The concept of temperament. Adult-oriented theories of temperament (including H. Eysenck’s PEN theory, the sensation-seeking theory, and anxiety and impulsivity in J. Gray’s theory).
5. The structure of temperament in J. Strelau’s Regulative Theory of Temperament: temperament as a set of formal characteristics of behavior. The energetic and temporal characteristics of behavior.
6. Temperament and personality: mechanisms through which formal characteristics of behavior influence content-related traits. Temperament and interests, and the need for achievement.
7. The functional significance of temperament. The concept of effective regulation of stimulation. Temperament as a moderator of stress. The concept of a temperamental risk factor. Temperament and performance effectiveness. Temperament and functioning in difficult situations. Styles of coping with stress.
8. The nature and structure of intelligence: factor theories of intelligence—hierarchical theories (C. Spearman, P. E. Vernon, R. B. Cattell) and theories based on equivalent factors (T. Kelley, L. L. Thurstone, J. Guilford).
9. Contemporary concepts of the structure of intellect: H. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, R. J. Sternberg’s triarchic theory of intelligence, and the Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) theory of intelligence.
10. The adaptive role of intelligence in everyday functioning—educational and occupational achievement. The concept of the “g” factor and issues related to the diagnosis of intelligence (criticism of test-based measurement).
11. “New intelligences”—emotional intelligence and its significance for individual development. The influence of the environment on its development. The ability model of J. Mayer and P. Salovey and mixed models proposed by D. Goleman and R. Bar-On.
12. Interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence. “New intelligences”—social intelligence and its relationship to social and interpersonal competencies. Other aspects of intelligence: creativity.
13. Genetic and environmental factors in shaping individual differences. The concept of heritability—twin studies and adoption studies. The role of environmental factors in modifying temperament traits: the issue of stability versus change in temperament. Environmental influences stimulating the development of intelligence.
14. The concept and functions of cognitive style: characteristics of selected styles, their origins, and significance.
15. Written exam.