The Writer's Guide to Character Traits: Includes Profiles of Human Behaviors and Personality Types

by Linda N. Edelstein

From Sex to Everything You Need to Develop Your Characters!What makes a person commit a white-collar crime? Who is a likely candidate to join a cult? Why do children have imaginary friends? How does birth order affect whether or not a person gets married? When does mind over matter become a crippling problem?Writer's Guide to Character Traits, 2nd edition answers all of these questions and many others. With more than 400 easy-to-reference lists of traits blended from a variety of behaviors and influences, you'll gain the knowledge you need to create distinctive characters whose personalities correspond to their thoughts and actions—no matter how normal or psychotic they might be. In this updated and expanded edition, you'll also instruction on how to use this bookNew statistical information to help you create true-to-life charactersCorresponding exercises that show you how to put the material to work in your storiesA quick-reference index to make cross-referencing a snapIdea sparkers to get your thoughts out of your head and onto the pagePlus, you'll learn about common—and not so common—psychological, physical, and relationship disorders; delve into the minds of criminals; find out what it takes to be a professional athlete, scientist, and truck driver; discover what life is like for a gang member, suicidal teen, and alcoholic; and more. In Writer's Guide to Character Traits, 2nd edition, note psychologist and author Dr. Linda Edelstein takes you beyond generic personality types and into the depths of the human psyche where you're sure to find the resources you need to make your characters stand out from the crowd.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction, Reference, Psychology, Research, Science, Crafts

487 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Kelly (Maybedog) · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a good idea but completely useless. Nothing went into enough depth to be useful, but the biggest problem is that although it was written in 1999, most of the sources used were already out of date and obsolete then. She uses Masters & Johnson from the 60's for information about homsexuality. Info about BDSM comes from a book written in 1964 when it was still considered a bizarre thing only freaks did. Seriously? Research as shown that as many as 70% of women claim to participate in BDSM play such as spanking. One of the sources was from 1937! With the amount of research into how the brain works and advances in psychology and sociology, such information is less than uselesss; it's often completely wrong.

1.5 stars rounded up because it was a good idea.

[Rachel]

Stereotypes exist for a reason; usually, because there's an element of truth to them. With The Writer's Guide to Character Traits, psychologist-professor Linda Edelstein has created a kind of Psych 101 for Writers. Her goal is a "friendly reference" for writers who want "to create believable characters and need accurate information about personality and behavior." Sure, disparage it if you like. But wouldn't you like to know which of your protagonist's offspring is most predisposed to warming up to their new stepfather? What kind of criminal is likely to have a religious mother? The traits of people who commit suicide? Edelstein has included more than 400 lists: of traits associated with child development, psychological disorders, criminal styles, sexual styles, love and marriage, life-changing events, physical problems, career, and so on. "Even when a writer's imagination soars to places more fascinating than reality," says Edelstein, "characters must possess an internal cohesiveness; they must make sense." And let's face it: "People," she adds, "are more consistent than not." (With real-life character anecdotes from Edelstein's own work and a huge character-trait cross-referencing index at book's end.) --Jane Steinberg --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

[Melannie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Wow, for a book published in 2004 it's certainly out of date and disgusting.

The section about mental disorders (and the questionably separate section about eating disorders) perpetuate basic stereotypes, and the paragraph-list on the habits of homosexual teenagers left many an eyebrow quirked.

In addition, the information is not synthesized or nicely put into a paragraph format for easy digestion. Instead it leaves bare-bones lists with little elaboration on the topics mentioned, as well as no exceptions to the plain and sometimes incorrect rules they put forth.

Minimal information could be gained from this, except that much has changed in eleven years and Edelstein is stuck in the past.

[Kathy Davie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edelstein calls this "a crash course in psychology for writers with information about personality and behavior to create believable and authentic characters".

My Take
I liked the differentiation Edelstein offers between character and traits. A good difference to keep in mind when creating your character while reminding the reader, er, I mean, the writer---you, that these groupings are not set in stone.

"Dorothy Parker was right: 'People are more fun than anybody.'"

While Edelstein remembers once in awhile to point out the ways in which a writer can use this information, it's mostly a psychological analysis of individuals in all sorts of situations from babyhood to adults; the effects of illnesses and all sorts of disorders along with deviations from the norm; types of criminality, romantic partners, age, maturation, group dynamics, sexual behaviors, family inter-relationships, how people cope, and occupational and group types.

It includes a chapter on physical appearances and nonverbal/verbal communication, i.e., body language and facial expressions as well as a short bit on the difference between male and female traits of communication. But I don't know why Edelstein bothered to include this. There really isn't much in this particular chapter.

My favorite chapters are the first and second as they have the most useful information in helping a writer create a sense of real people whom your readers can accept, believe in---whether for good or ill! How roles, situations, and relationships influence traits and vice versa. She notes the differences between adults and children whose "personalities are not yet fully formed"---a good distinction to keep in mind. And Edelstein reminds us---just often enough---that the categories are not exclusive nor inclusive.

Chapter four is rather terrifying---parents might consider reading this chapter just to help themselves keep an eye on their own behaviors!

There's an interesting section on using recovered or false memories to create conflict.

About halfway through Writer's Guide to Character Traits, I was getting rather skeptical about how to use this mass of information. I thought I'd have to be flipping back and forth hunting for how to pull the bits in the various chapters together to create my character, but then I got to chapter 14 and my prayers were answered. Edelstein has an index of traits and the types of disorders or situations in which you could expect to find it. It still involves flipping back and forth, but at least this chapter tells you where to flip!

Overall it's an interesting book, but I'm not sure it's worth buying. Check it out at the library first.

The Cover
The cover is a colonial blue with black text and a slash of white puzzle pieces across the background with an eye in black.

The title indicates for whom the book is written and its contents: a Writer's Guide to Character Traits.

[Josette]

I've read only portions of this book, but it's not exactly the type of book you can read cover-to-cover. This book is good as a reference tool for writers, because it lists personality traits and disorders that various classifications of people have, which can help writers make their characters more believable. So far I've been disappointed with the amount of information the author lists. I'm sure there's only so much a journeyed psychiatrist can include in a book that covers character traits of just about anyone a writer could possibly want to write about, but I guess I was looking for more than just a list of traits a person has; I want to know the "why" behind all the "whats" she lists.

I expect this book to be on my "currently reading" list for awhile, since, as I said, it will be something I refer to as I need it rather than something to read front to back.

[Natalie Ciampichini · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a bad book if you've never taken a psychology class or two. I felt like the author covered a large amount of material but only superficially. I would have liked to see some discussion or examples of various psychological traits in famous characters to see how this knowledge could be applied. The only chapter that was really unfamiliar/helpful for me was the one on character personality types. Other than that, I was somewhat familiar already with the information on disorders and life stages/development from past classes I've taken. Like I said, the subhect matter wasn't very deep. Just don't expect any really detailed discussions here. There were also some interesting writing prompts throughout, but I never tried any.

[K. G. Whitehurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

You don't really read this one all the way through, but it is super helpful for writers trying to understand how certain types of people manifest their "personality" styles in their behavior. The concrete examples, short and to the point, are delightful.

[H. R. Frankline · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was an incredibly helpful book until I got to the part where it talked about the male personalities and traits, specifically 11-13 when I realized my brother is 10...I'm not ready for this but okie dokie

[Wendopolis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as a gift from my sister (signed!) and I've enjoyed reading it many times over the years. A valuable addition to any writer's library.

[Hunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good reference tool for creating more indepth characters, giving the writer the ability to think about the character's childhood influences and personality traits which define their actions and reactions today. Bullet-pointed and indexed to help with selection.

Naturally, there could be 200, 300 maybe 500% more careers, traits or disorders that could have been listed here, but these are good starter subjects for pointing you to where you may like to explore.

My copy was borrowed from the local library, or I perhaps mightn't have discovered this book. Having explored it, I thought to get myself a copy permanently, but unfortunately Amazon has currently pulled the Kindle edition due to some reader comments - perhaps formatting troubles? Will wait for this.

[Rae · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is more of a quick reference or jumping off point than an in-depth look. There's many lists and charts which make looking up aspects of a condition or disorder easy. Childhood and adolescence are covered as well as adulthood. In addition to various disorders and conditions the book covers group dynamics as well as body language and nonverbal cues. These sections make handy cheat sheets for any writer.

While many conditions and disorders are covered, none are covered in depth. However they're useful for getting an initial understanding for further research or as a way of deciding what to inflict upon your cast of characters.

[A.R. Bredenberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This "Writer's Guide to Character Traits" is a useful reference created by professional psychologist Linda N. Edelstein. Much food for thought here to help the fiction author add depth to characters.

Particularly useful is Chapter 2, "Adult Personality Types," which outlines the traits and interpersonal attributes of 23 personality types, such as the Adventurer, the Boss, the Conformist, the Dependent, the Eccentric, the Fall Guy or Girl, the Loner, the Man's Man, and the Ultra-Feminine.

I read many books for writers. Most end up for sale used on Amazon or in a donation box. But this one gets a permanent place on my writer's reference shelf.

ARK

[Hey_jude · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is perfect for any writer, and is by far the best character reference book I have stumbled upon. Inside are detailed chapters of all types of character traits plus numerous writing exercises that will help get into the mind of said character. I've never been so engrossed! A definite read for anyone who wants to create well rounded, eccentric characters instead of cardboard cutouts.

[April Brown · Rating 2 out of 5]

Several stereotypes, not all correct.

A few good points in some places.

Looking forward to the publication of The BookShelf Muse.

[Tom Bane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Invaluable book for writers, I'll write a full review later...

[Ms. Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not to be read as a fiction read in just 2 sittings. Helps build character profiles using certain stereotypes: the divorcee, the mentally ill, the abuser, and so on.

[Eileen Troemel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd really like to give this book a 3.5 stars but unfortunately I can't. Edelstein has organized this book well. It is easy to read and easy to find the information you are looking for. She covers adult, children (with two chapters) traits as well as others like criminal and psychological disorders. She's done a beautiful job organizing and putting this book in a logical and usable format. If an author is looking to create a character outline this is an excellent place to start. She covers other topics like sexual issues, love, marriage, and other arrangements. She's very thorough and neatly organized. I think the problem comes in if authors think this is an exhaustive way to build a character. There are a lot of good things in here for authors to utilize. The organization is stellar. However, there are always outliers who don't fit the mold psychology has created. Any author using this book will have to put their own quirkiness in their characters. If authors are looking for a place to start - and only start - this is a good reference book.

[Lyna M. Perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I see the point that some people make about it providing 'stock' characters, I do not think that is the author's intention. She presents several aspects of people: traits, relationships, etc. It is up to the writer to use the book as a resource to create a complex character. It could add amazing depth and back history and helps to give clues on how people respond to grief, love, good/poor family relationships. I read it cover to cover, and I found it interesting. I look forward to using it as a resource.

[Swanbrother · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very, very dated. There are some things in here that are useful, but take all of it with a grain of salt-- the science this is based in has advanced A LOT since it was written, and you will find yourself thinking "we know better now" during many of the entries. In particular, there are some bits that are pretty homophobic and extremely transphobic-- it was the early 2000s, honestly I'm just amazed that we were mentioned at all.

Interesting to flip through, but if you're doing research for a character, don't make this your only source.

[Robert Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

This could prove to be an invaluable tool to use when developing characters for more involved pieces of fiction. In addition to that it's pretty useful for giving an insight into the characters of the people around you and yourself. Of particular interest is the table on page 340 that shows the different traits of men and women when they are speaking to each other. This could well be the key to a happily married life for me - now and in the future.

[Colleen Aylward · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good reference book to use as you develop your characters and their traits and backstories. Some great insights, such as the typical Skyjacker has a religious mother and a violent father who is already dead. Who knew? Makes sense.

I use it constantly, if only for the amusement.

I gave it 3 stars rather than 5 since it is a bit outdated in the examples. On the other hand, human nature doesn't change that much in 20 years.

[Evalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A psychological reference book that lists the traits, behaviors, and what influenced them in every type from "soccer moms to serial killers" - tool for writers creating characters and for anyone interested in human behavior. Thorough, clear, and concise - by Linda N. Edelstein, a Psychologist and professor of psychology. Re-read.

[Miranda Benson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Warning for trans folks: this book classifies being trans as a mental disorder.

The information is very helpful for writers, but much of the information regarding gender identity and sexuality is outdated and grossly incorrect. I hope the author puts out a new edition with some of these issues corrected.

[Scott Kinkade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great resource for writers. Tells you how to write any kind of character, from happy teenage daughter to sick arsonist and everything in between. Edelstein has a strong grasp of every personality type. and it shows. I recommend this for anyone writing fiction.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

One thing that the aspiring fiction writer must do is develop believable characters. This book analyzes human personality traits and gives advice on developing character traits. It covers a wide spectrum of traits.

[Sarah Lapalme · Rating 4 out of 5]

This reference books deals really heavily into psychology. It lets you get super deep into your character bios but again, I already got most of this info out of the other reference books I just finished.

[Mackenzie Friel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5
Not a bad place to start when you're trying to create a new character. Some of information is older, the edition I read is from 1999, but the author recognizes that in her introduction and knows research into some stuff shown will change

['Nathan Burgoine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I come back to this book again and again.

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some parts were useful. If anything, it can at least allow someone to brainstorm ideas.

[Mary Quire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative.