Interpersonal Theory of Personality

Abstract

AbstractThe interpersonal theory of personality, originating with the works of Sullivan, Leary, and Schaefer, is reviewed, and it is suggested that an interpersonal focus can serve as the basis for integrating diverse theoretical approaches to personality. Interpersonal theory's emphasis on the “interpersonal situation” includes both proximal description of overt behavioral transaction and covert psychological processes that mediate interaction, including the formation and function of internalized mental representations of self and other. Interpersonal theory's unique contributions to personality include well‐articulated structural models to describe interpersonal behavior and the patterned regularity of human transaction and recognition of the reciprocal field regulatory functions of interpersonal behavior. Motivational and developmental concepts and processes require further development. We assert that a comprehensive interpersonal theory requires integration with attachment, object relations, and cognitive theories of human behavior and development. Recent theoretical developments such as Kiesler's “impact message” and Benjamin's “gift of love” theory of psychopathology begin such integrative steps. We argue that an even broader range of human motives across the lifespan be linked to interpersonal functioning than is currently found in the literature. In addition, identification of the catalysts that stimulate internalization of relational experience into influential mental representations is needed in an interpersonal theory of personality development.