Creativity is noticeable. We may be creative ourselves and sense it, or we may observe it in others. Creative persons-inventors, writers, artists, mathematicians, scientists, architects-have been studied extensively. In describing the creative personality, we should note that certain characteristics of creativity may lead either to success or to conflicts and discouragement. Let us also point out that most of us, would probably not classify ourselves as creative. Special skills and talents do tend, however, to influence personality.
The Creative Personality
Creativity is frequently noticed in childhood. The seven-year-old, for example, who does not easily follow the structured requirements of the classroom and seems to "turn off" the teacher or ignore instructions, may be genuinely creative. And as one can observe, such reactions can create problems not only for the child, but also for parents as well. The creative person is self-motivated. Once the individual hasexpgrienced the joy of discovery, which can range from fixing a motor or some appliance to organizing a successful event, he or she is more determined than ever to explore new paths and try new things. Creativity reinforces itself. As with any other personality trait, creativity shows individual differences. However, most creative people do have a number of things in common.
Some Things in Common. First, creative people are less conven· tional than others, regardless of field. Second, because they are less conventional, creative people tend to show independence of judgment. Third, creative people view authority as Conventional rather than absolute. Fourth, creative people do not always know where the results of their efforts are going to lead them.
Depending on our personality type, we may be glad we are creative or conventional. Creative people like to deal with complex things, even becoming bored with simplicity. We can learn much about our individual personality when we examine the types of risks we like to take or to avoid. Basically, an examination of the roles we like and do not like to play tells us much about our personality.
Chances are that many of us have our own ways of viewing personality and perwnality d~fferences. Theorists also have their views. Let us look at three different theories of personality.
