When Interviewed, Mr

question 155

Essay

When interviewed, Mr. and Mrs. Williams said that their two children, Jack and Wilbur, were different from the day each child was born. Jack was very affectionate, almost never cried or fussed, and always seemed curious about the faces that appeared above his crib, even those of strangers. Wilbur, on the other hand, was irritable from the outset, often cried for no apparent reason, and usually became upset when strangers' faces came into view. Thus, the Williamses wondered about their children's early personalities and about children in general. (a) Which basic notion about children is favored here, nature or nurture? Why? (b) What basic methods might the investigators employ in collecting information on Jack and Wilbur?

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Definitions:

Self-Concept

An individual's perception of themselves, comprising beliefs, feelings, and thoughts about one's identity and attributes.

Trait Self-Esteem

An individual's enduring belief in their own worth or abilities across situations and time.

Across Cultures

Refers to phenomena, practices, or situations that occur or are relevant in multiple cultural contexts, emphasizing cross-cultural interactions and understanding.

Ethnic Minority

A group within a country or community which differs from the majority in racial, national, cultural, or linguistic characteristics.