Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

How can an anal personality type characterized by being stingy and rigid best be described?

1. Creative, open-minded, adaptable

2. Organized, meticulous, patient

3. Stingy, selfish, suspicious

4. Generous, easy-going, free-spirited

The correct answer is: Stingy, selfish, suspicious

The description of an anal personality type aligns well with the characteristics of being stingy, selfish, and suspicious. This personality type, often associated with Freud's psychosexual stages, particularly the anal stage, suggests traits that include rigidity in thinking, a strong need for control, and difficulty in being flexible. Individuals exhibiting these traits typically have a tendency to fixate on details and maintain strict order, often at the expense of generosity and warmth. Being stingy reflects a lack of willingness to share or give, which is often rooted in an underlying fear of loss or mistrust of others. Selfishness points to a primary focus on one's own needs and desires, often disregarding the emotional or physical needs of others. Additionally, suspicion can manifest as a distrust towards people, leading to challenges in forming healthy relationships and establishing trust. This combination epitomizes the anal-retentive personality as described in classical psychoanalytic theory, underscoring why the response that captures these traits is the most accurate.