Areas of Individual Differences

Human beings are found differ from each other and among themselves in the following important ways and dimensions:

1.                       Differences in physical  traits: Individuals differ in height, weight, colour of skin, colour of eye and hair, size of hands and legs, shape of mouth and nose, facial expression, mannerism of speech and walk, hair style etc…

2.                       Mental differences: People differ in intellectual abilities and capacities like reasoning and thinking power, power of imagination, creative expression, concentration etc. People differ in their general intelligence; and on the basis of their general intelligence; and on the basis of their IQ difference they are usually classified as idiot, imbecile, morom, boarder line, normal, bright, very superior and genius.

3.                       Difference in motor ability: Individual differences can be seen in motor abilities such as reaction time, speed of action, steadiness, rate of muscular movement, résistance to fatigue etc.

4.                       Differences in interest and aptitude: People differ in their tastes and interests. Some take interest in meeting people, attending social functions and are very fond of group activities; others feel happy in solitude and avoid social gatherings.

5.                       Differences in attitudes: Individual difference can be observed in the beliefs, opinions and ideas of people. People are found to possess varying attitudes towards different people, groups, objects, political and religious philosophies etc.

6.                       Emotional differences: Individuals differ in the manner they express their emotions. In some individuals positive emotions like love, affection, amusement etc. are more prevalent whereas in others negative emotions are more powerful. Some are emotionally stable and mature while others unstable and immature.