Abstract
M.A. (Industrial Psychology)
The behavioural sciences lack unity and a classifying, theoretical framework into which existing knowledge and research can be integrated.
Over the last few decades overspecialization ln research has jeopardized the scientific theorybuilding process in the behavioural sciences. Part of this overspecialization comes from the prevailing positivistic approach in behavioural research.
This state of affairs can be ascribed to the fact that in recent years very little classification and theoretical integration has been done and therefore minimal true theory building occurred.
Raubenheimer (1978) postulated his 4-dimensional theory of human behaviour which was broad enough to satisfy the need for such an integrating and classifying structure which would accommodate most other theories and integrate components of knowledge in the human behavioural sciences. This theory also offered the neccessary solution to the mind-body problem which, as postulated in this and other research, is still causing a
cultural split in the behavioural sciences at the philosophical level. Stoker (1969) and Strauss (1969) consider a lack of philosophical basis as the reason for the deterioration of the behavioral sciences into overspecialized and overprocessed pieces of hard experimental knowledge and facts. Raubenheimer's theory also furnished this much needed and sound philosophical basis and he also believes in a much more diversified approach in creating knowledge and in theorybuilding, which in turn enhances integration.
The aim of the present study is to exam1ne the causes of the over specialisation phenomena in behavioural research and to describe personality in terms of the 4-dimensional theory of human behaviour. In the experimental part of this study the
aim is to determine personality correlates of the depth dimension.
The possible relationship between the two constructs was therefore predicted and examined. The results confirmed the findings of De Jager (1978), who defined and outlined the depth dimension.
This study was also directed at changing the status of the dimension from a theoretical, to a practically usable construct. In the process knowledge was gained about the depth-dimension as well as the relationship between depth-orientation and personality.