Main description:

This work summarizes an ongoing longitudinal study concerned with the nature of human differences as manifest in peoples' life histories. The traditional models for the description of human differences are reviewed, then contrasted with the presentation of alternative models. This volume is also one of the few to investigate different approaches to measurement procedures. Practical applications of these models and the results obtained in a 23 research effort are discussed.

Contents:

Contents: E.A. Fleishman, Foreword. Approaches to the Study of Individuality: Science and Individuality. Studies of Individual Development and Their Implications. A Prototype Alternative for the Description of Individuality. Background Data in Formulating Prototypes. General Methods and Bias Checks. Cross-Sectional Results. Sequential Results. The Composite Summary Dimensions. Description of the Composite Prototypes. Evaluation of Composite Prototypes. Comparative Findings. Theoretical Implications: A General View of Human Individuality. Technical Implications: Methodological Considerations in the Description of Human Individuality. Practical Implementation Strategies for Applying the Prototype Model. Retrospective and Parting Comments.