When it comes to understanding human behavior, personality studies play a crucial role in explaining why people act the way they do. Whether you’re exploring these topics for personal insight or professional growth, diving into the best books on psychology personality study can be a transformative experience. Below, I’ve compiled the top 10 books that will guide you through different aspects of personality psychology, from communication and resilience to understanding introversion and overcoming narcissism.
Author: Jane O’Hara
A psychologist with over 15 years of experience studying human behavior and personality dynamics, Jane brings a professional yet approachable tone to her writing. She has authored multiple articles and is passionate about sharing insights from the field to help others better understand themselves and those around them.
10. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Author: Susan Cain
⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (33,936 ratings)
Alt text: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
In this groundbreaking book, Susan Cain explores the undervalued strengths of introverts in a society that favors extroverted qualities. Drawing from research in psychology and neuroscience, Quiet is a must-read for anyone interested in personality psychology.
Why You’ll Love It:
Cain presents compelling arguments backed by solid research, challenging stereotypes and helping readers understand that introversion is not a weakness but a strength.
Fun Fact:
Susan Cain’s TED Talk based on this book has been viewed over 40 million times, making it one of the most-watched TED Talks of all time.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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9. I Hate You—Don’t Leave Me: Understanding the Borderline Personality
Author: Jerold J. Kreisman
⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (1,618 ratings)
Alt text: I Hate You–Don’t Leave Me: Third Edition: Understanding the Borderline Personality
This classic work delves into the complexities of borderline personality disorder (BPD), offering insights into the challenges of living with this condition and how loved ones can support those affected.
Why You’ll Love It:
Jerold J. Kreisman’s approachable writing style makes complex psychological concepts easy to understand for readers from all backgrounds.
Fun Fact:
This book has been updated several times since its first publication, reflecting the evolving understanding of borderline personality disorder over the years.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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8. What Every Body is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed-Reading People
Author: Joe Navarro
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (13,212 ratings)
Alt text: What Every Body Is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed-Reading People
Joe Navarro, a former FBI agent, shares his expertise on nonverbal communication, offering readers the tools to “read” people and understand their personalities based on body language.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book provides actionable insights for anyone looking to improve their social skills or better understand the hidden cues in everyday interactions.
Fun Fact:
Navarro’s work in the FBI was primarily focused on counterintelligence, where interpreting body language was crucial in identifying spies.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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7. Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each
Author: Thomas Erikson
⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (10,619 ratings)
Alt text: Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
This entertaining book divides personalities into four types—Red, Yellow, Green, and Blue—and teaches readers how to communicate with each in both personal and professional settings.
Why You’ll Love It:
Erikson’s humorous and insightful writing helps readers not only identify the personality types around them but also improve their communication skills dramatically.
Fun Fact:
The book’s title came from Erikson’s own frustrations with dealing with different personality types, leading him to explore how better understanding could lead to better communication.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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6. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Author: Angela Duckworth
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (19,388 ratings)
Alt text: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Angela Duckworth’s Grit explores the role of perseverance in achieving long-term goals, focusing on how personality traits like resilience and determination are key to success.
Why You’ll Love It:
Duckworth blends personal anecdotes, scientific research, and stories of success to demonstrate how “grit” can be the secret to achievement in any field.
Fun Fact:
Duckworth won the MacArthur Genius Grant in 2013 for her pioneering work on grit and perseverance.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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5. Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know
Author: Adam Grant
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (15,939 ratings)
Alt text: Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know
In Think Again, organizational psychologist Adam Grant encourages readers to rethink their assumptions and embrace the power of learning from being wrong.
Why You’ll Love It:
Grant’s engaging and insightful narrative challenges readers to adopt a growth mindset, which can be especially powerful in both personal and professional development.
Fun Fact:
Adam Grant is one of the most popular TED speakers of all time, with his talks reaching millions of viewers worldwide.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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4. It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People
Author: Ramani Durvasula, PhD
⭐ 4.9 out of 5 stars (2,128 ratings)
Alt text: It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People
This book focuses on recognizing narcissistic traits in others and offers strategies for healing from toxic relationships. Dr. Durvasula blends psychological theory with practical advice to help readers move forward.
Why You’ll Love It:
This highly-rated book offers both expert knowledge and actionable advice, making it invaluable for anyone trying to break free from damaging relationships.
Fun Fact:
Dr. Ramani has over 300,000 subscribers on YouTube, where she discusses the impact of narcissistic personalities.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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3. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
Author: Adam Grant
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (2,932 ratings)
Alt text: Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
Hidden Potential uncovers how we can maximize our strengths and overcome challenges through the lens of personality psychology.
Why You’ll Love It:
Adam Grant once again provides readers with evidence-based strategies that can help individuals tap into their hidden potential.
Fun Fact:
Grant’s books have been translated into 35 languages, showing their global impact.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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2. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Author: Susan Cain
⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (33,936 ratings)
Alt text: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
In Quiet, Cain dives into the often overlooked world of introverts and their contributions to society.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book gives introverts the validation they deserve and shows how to harness their unique strengths in an extrovert-dominated world.
Fun Fact:
Quiet was a New York Times bestseller for several years, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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1. Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
Author: Thomas Erikson
⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (10,619 ratings)
Alt text: Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
This practical guide is a fun and informative deep dive into how understanding personality types can help you communicate more effectively, not only in business but in life.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book simplifies complex psychological principles into easy-to-understand and applicable concepts, making it a perfect guide for anyone looking to improve their communication skills.
Fun Fact:
Erikson’s method has been used by companies worldwide to enhance teamwork and productivity.
Category: Psychology Personality Study
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