Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The concept of "human agency" is deeply connected to personality because it emphasizes the individual's capacity to make choices and exert control over their life and actions. This perspective underscores the belief that people are not merely passive recipients of external influences or predetermined traits; instead, they actively shape their development and experiences through their decisions.

By recognizing human agency, we acknowledge that individuals have the power to set goals, value certain traits, and act in ways that reflect their personal beliefs and identity. This ability to make choices significantly influences various aspects of personality, including how individuals respond to challenges, form relationships, and pursue their aspirations. It highlights the dynamic interplay between personal agency and external factors, illustrating that personality is not static but rather evolves through active engagement with one's environment and decision-making processes.

The other options, while they touch on aspects of personality, do not accurately capture the essence of human agency. For instance, genetic factors and innate characteristics refer to more deterministic views of personality, while social influences highlight the environmental context. However, they do not encompass the critical role of active choice and control that defines human agency.