Personality and Weak Personality: Definition, Causes, and Development

There are many definitions of personality, and it is difficult to agree on a single definition that fully captures it.

Westen defines personality as:
"Persistent patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors expressed in different situations."
Sullivan describes it as:
"The unique ways in which an individual interacts with others."
Eysenck states:
"A relatively stable organization of a person’s morals, temperament, mind, and body that determines their unique adaptation to their environment."

In general, personality includes all traits, tendencies, desires, personal perceptions, and thoughts within an individual that distinguish them from others and affect their interactions with the surrounding environment—whether in understanding, behavior, emotions, or outward appearance.

Weak Personality and How to Strengthen It

Strengthening a Weak Personality

Treating a weak personality starts with identifying its cause; once the cause is removed, the problem can be resolved. Behavioral therapy is often the most effective approach for weak personality caused by environmental factors or concerns related to physical appearance.

Other methods to strengthen personality include:

Encouraging reading from childhood to expand knowledge and critical thinking.
Teaching responsibility and allowing children to practice it through tasks, such as taking care of a younger sibling.
Encouraging social interaction through activities and group participation to overcome fears.
Developing talents and skills to boost self-confidence.
Respecting the child’s opinions and listening to them to enhance self-esteem.
Adopting positive thinking patterns and avoiding negative self-talk.
Surrounding oneself with positive, balanced, and optimistic people.
Focusing on personal achievements rather than comparing oneself to others.
Learning assertive communication and questioning information when appropriate.
Practicing self-acceptance and cultivating positive self-perception.
Organizing thoughts and expressing them clearly to others.
Prioritizing rational thinking over emotional impulses in decision-making.
Engaging in diverse activities such as sports, literature, or poetry to enrich personality and mental health.

Causes of Weak Personality

Several factors can contribute to a weak personality, including:

Medical reasons: Conditions such as depression or schizophrenia can affect personality. Depressed individuals may feel useless and lack motivation, while those with schizophrenia may display emotional detachment. Physical appearance issues, such as injuries or deformities, may also contribute.
Negative environment: Exposure to a toxic home, school, or work environment.
Negative self-programming: Repeating thoughts like “I am a failure” or “I cannot do it.”
Sensitivity to criticism: Being easily influenced by others’ opinions.
Poor self-image: Lack of respect or trust in one’s abilities.
Bad company: Friends or peers who discourage growth.
Lack of clear goals or self-belief.

Signs of a Weak Personality

Indicators of a weak personality include:

Indecisiveness and prolonged hesitation in making decisions.
Feelings of defeat and withdrawal from social interactions.
Inability to speak confidently or assert opinions.
Habitual silence or difficulty expressing oneself.
Difficulty defending oneself or taking initiative.
Constantly aligning with stronger personalities for safety.
Overthinking others’ opinions, leading to discouragement.
Dependence on others for tasks or decisions.
Lack of self-development or effort to strengthen personality.

Personality and Social Environment

An individual’s personality begins forming from the first months of life. Influences include family, genetics, and broader social factors. Key factors shaping personality:

Parents’ profession, religious orientation, social class, and even the child’s name.
Differences in parental nationality, religion, or residence.
Social circumstances, such as living in a peaceful or war-affected area.
Birth order and gender.

These factors can either strengthen a child’s personality, giving them confidence, or contribute to developing a weak personality.