Personality Analysis of Walt Disney

Paper Summary:

This paper consists of several literature reviews concerning Walt Disney's early life and his important influences. Using behavioral and cognitive theories of personality, the author analyzes Disney's personality and concludes that the primary influences on Disney's personality development were his early childhood experiences in Marceline, Missouri and his close relationship with his mother and brother. The paper reasons that although cognitive theories of personality development indicate that Disney's behavior can be attributed to a keen and savvy understanding of what people wanted and how he could go about providing it while achieving his own personal goals, it was his early childhood experiences on the farm and repeated financial setbacks that contributed to his company's ruthless approach to doing business. This paper includes pictures.

Outline:
Abstract
Review and Discussion
Brief Biography and Overview of Walt Disney
Cognitive Theory of Personality and Walt Disney
Behavioral Theories of Personality and Walt Disney
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"It is probably unlikely that even Walt himself could have foreseen the vast and far-flung empire that Disney has become, but he would undoubtedly be delighted at knowing that his early efforts had brought so much joy into the world for millions of children and adults alike. Some authorities, though, suggest that this joy has come at a high price in terms of its impact on the American consciousness and its approach to theme park management based on Walt's own powerful personality and legacy. Certainly, everyone wears a number of different "hats" during their lifetimes, and people grow, mature and change and different personality theories can be used to explain these processes."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Baker, W. F. & Dessart, G. (1998). Down the tube: An inside account of the failure of American television. New York: Basic Books.
• Bryman, A. (1995). Disney and his worlds. New York: Routledge.
• Burk, K. (2008). Walt's boyhood home: Marceline, Missouri. [Online]. Available: http://www. startedbyamouse.com/features/Marceline01.shtml.
• Deegan, M. J. (1998). The American ritual tapestry: Social rules and cultural meanings. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press.
• Fjellman, S. M. (1992). Vinyl leaves: Walt Disney World and America. Boulder, CO: Westview Press.

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