Personality Theory, Values and Motivations: Building Solid Characters

Psychology for Writers provides insights for the writer and the writing: learn how to use psychology effectively in storytelling, as well as how to improve creativity, the writing process, and productivity.

Learn key psychological theories and ideas to strengthen your characters, and understand your own motivations. This session will introduce you to personality theory (beyond Freud) and help you understand your characters’ values and motivations. Along the way, you may discover what your own key motivations are.

Facilitator: Dr. Andrew Vidgen  - Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Musician, and Writer

Testimonials

Great session today. Many thanks, Andrew. It will definitely help me create full-fleshed characters. And, incidentally understand my own values. —- Tina Field Howe 

That was a fun and educational class. —- Adam Sturkenboom 

I enjoyed it thoroughly. Thank you, Andrew. —- Boomer Murrhee 

Wow! A treasure trove of information. Thank you very much, Andrew! —- Suzanne Lutas 

Excellent session. Overview of the history of psychiatry with emphasis on the BIG 5 personality traits and Schwartz motivational factors. Imperative stuff! — Kirk Ah Tye

Andrew has worked in mental health for the last 30 years and has built a wealth of knowledge in understanding people, relationships, mental health challenges, and recovery.  He is also a writer and has recently published ‘moments’ from his own life, had a short radio play produced and been shortlisted in a number of film festivals, including: Waterford Film Festival (2017), Rome Independent Prisma Awards (2020) Indie Short Fest (2019), finalist GIM (2020) and winner in the International Independent Film Awards (2019).  He also sings and plays harmonica for Thee Manatees. 

References: 

Research Gate - Scientific Contributions

One Hand Clapping - Stories and Extracts 

Music - Thee Manatees