Kretschmer theory, developed by German psychiatrist Ernst Kretschmer at the beginning of the 20th century, is one of the most influential theories in personality psychology. This theory focuses on the relationship between the body and temperament, arguing that there is an intrinsic connection between a person's physical constitution and their way of being and behaving.
The foundations of Kretschmer's theory
Ernst Kretschmer proposed that each individual has a specific physical constitution that influences their temperament and personality. According to his theory, there are three types of body constitutions: the picnic type, the athletic type and the leptosomal type. Each of these types is associated with certain personality and temperament characteristics.
The picnic type
The picnic type is characterized by a rounded physical constitution, with a tendency to accumulate fat and have a robust build. According to Kretschmer, people with this body type tend to be sociable, affectionate, and emotional. They are communicative and enjoy the company of others. In addition, they tend to be empathetic and have an inclination towards the arts and creative activities.
The athletic type
The athletic type refers to those individuals with a muscular physical constitution, with a strong bone structure and good muscle mass. Kretschmer associated this body type with people who are confident, active, and looking for challenges. Athletic individuals tend to be competitive, energetic, and action-oriented. They have a leadership mentality and excel in activities that require physical strength and endurance.
The Leptosomal Type
Lastly, the leptosomal type is characterized by a thin physical build, with little body fat and a light bone structure. Kretschmer identified people with this body type as introverted, thoughtful, and sensitive. They tend to be reserved, perfectionists and with attention to detail. They have a tendency towards introversion and contemplation, preferring solitary activities or in small groups.
The interaction between body and temperament
According to Kretschmer's theory, the relationship between the body and temperament is bidirectional. That is, not only the physical constitution influences the personality, but also the personality can be manifested through the shape of the body. Kretschmer believed that this interaction was the result of genetic and environmental factors that shaped both the physical structure and psychological characteristics of an individual.
The importance of somatotypology
Somatotypology, the The study of the relationship between physical constitution and personality has been a relevant field of research in psychology. Through empirical studies and clinical observations, we have sought to establish links between certain physical traits and specific temperaments. While Kretschmer's theory has been subject to criticism and revision over the years, his focus on the mind-body connection has contributed significantly to the field of personality psychology.
The Legacy of Kretschmer's Theory
Despite the criticism and controversies surrounding Kretschmer's theory, his work has left a lasting legacy in personality psychology. His holistic approach, which views the individual as an integrated entity of body and mind, has inspired subsequent research into the influence of biology on personality. Additionally, the idea that body shape may be related to temperament has opened new lines of research into how genetic and environmental factors interact to shape an individual's personality.
In conclusion, the theory Kretschmer's offers a unique perspective on the relationship between the body and temperament. While his ideas have been discussed and revised over time, his emphasis on the interconnection between biology and psychology continues to be relevant in contemporary psychology. The influence of physical constitution on personality is a fascinating topic that continues to be the subject of research and debate in the discipline of psychology.