ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the relations between mind, intelligence, and personality. We first summarize research on the organization and development of personality from infancy through to adulthood. Second, we present research on the relations between personality and intelligence. Third, we present research on the relative contributions of personality and intelligence to real-life achievements. This research suggests several conclusions. First, intelligence, personality, and ego and self are related but they are distinct from each of other because they represent different aspects of mental functioning and action: intelligence comprehends, plans, and solves problems; personality frames and colours comprehension, constrains plans and solutions to suit one’s predispositions, preferences, and values; and ego ensures coherence in making meaning of the world and one’s own experiences. Second, there is a bridge connecting these realms: cognizance and the awareness that it engenders. Third, with development, the relations between the various processes are refined and projected into one’s self-system. In the process the mechanisms of the ego, such as the ego defences, ensure that this refinement and amalgamation will occur smoothly and adaptively. Thus it is shown that an integrated theory of intelligence, personality, and self-development is possible.
