Define: Authoritarian Personality

Authoritarian personality refers to a psychological construct that describes individuals who exhibit a strong inclination towards obedience, submission to authority, and a strict adherence to conventional norms and values. This concept was first introduced by social psychologists Theodor Adorno, Else Frenkel-Brunswik, Daniel Levinson, and Nevitt Sanford in their influential work, “The Authoritarian Personality,” published in 1950.

The authors conducted extensive research to understand the psychological factors that contribute to the development of authoritarian personalities. They argued that certain childhood experiences, such as harsh parenting, strict discipline, and an emphasis on obedience, can shape an individual’s personality traits and predispose them to authoritarianism. They also identified a set of specific personality traits associated with authoritarianism, including a rigid mindset, intolerance of ambiguity, and a tendency to project their own insecurities onto others.

The authors further suggested that authoritarian personalities are more likely to support and engage in discriminatory behaviours, prejudice, and authoritarian political ideologies. They argued that these individuals are prone to adopting and promoting ideologies that advocate for strong, centralized authority, social conformity, and the suppression of dissenting opinions.

The concept of authoritarian personality has been widely debated and criticized since its introduction. Critics argue that the construct is overly simplistic and fails to account for the complex interplay of various social, cultural, and psychological factors that contribute to an individual’s political beliefs and behaviours. Additionally, some argue that the construct may pathologize certain political ideologies without considering their historical, cultural, or contextual underpinnings.

Despite these criticisms, the concept of authoritarian personality continues to be influential in understanding the psychological factors that contribute to political attitudes and behaviours. It has been used to explain phenomena such as the rise of authoritarian leaders, the support for populist movements, and the persistence of discriminatory practices in society.

In conclusion, authoritarian personality refers to a psychological construct that describes individuals who exhibit a strong inclination towards obedience, submission to authority, and a strict adherence to conventional norms and values. While it has been influential in understanding political attitudes and behaviours, it remains a subject of ongoing debate and criticism within the field of psychology.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.