Designed to guide students toward a comprehensive understanding of major personality theories, Ryckman provides a theory-by-theory approach that helps students develop the skills needed to critically evaluate personality theories. In the beginning of the book, Ryckman defines personality, provides basic information concerning the scientific process, including the interrelatedness of theory and research, and offers the criteria scientists use in judging the worth of theories. Then, chapter by chapter, he introduces each major theoretical position with an objective overview of the theorists' basic concepts and principles. The final chapter highlights the heuristic value of the theories, noting the many ways in which they act as stimulants to the thinking and research efforts of contemporary personality psychologists. Ryckman finishes by presenting five current trends in personality theory and research, which are largely the result of stimulation by the theorists covered in the text.