Questions and Topics We Can Help You To Answer: 

The thought paper will be evaluated on two levels: technical and content/style.  Below is a copy of the rubric that will be used in grading the thought papers.  The rubric tells you exactly what you need to include so be certain to address each required area.  Avoid typographical errors and misspelled words - proofread carefully!  Also make sure to use appropriate citations.  You do not need to use any outside sources but your textbook or class notes should be cited when you are referring to specific terms and the TV show should be cited as well.  APA style is preferred but MLA or other appropriate referencing will be accepted.  
Your responses should be organized in a clear and logical manner.  DO NOT just ramble on about a topic.  Think about the issue you are discussing and present your ideas in a clear, concise, and organized fashion.  Further, your responses should show an appropriate application of concepts from the text, reading or lecture.  A strong thought paper is one that integrates the assignment with text reading and class discussion, and shows evidence of critical thinking. 
Assignment for Thought Paper #2:  Applying Personality Theories to TV Characters
For this paper, you are going to apply personality theory to the behavior of a television character. 
•    Think of an interesting TV character (perhaps a favorite character or one with a particularly vivid or unique personality). 
•    Focus on a specific episode of the TV show that features that character.  Briefly describe the circumstances and plot of the episode and then explain that character’s behavior in terms of one of the major personality theories (i.e., psycho dynamic, humanistic, trait, or cognitive social- learning).  Your explanation should clearly indicate your understanding of the relevant theory AS WELL as your application of that theory to your TV character.  
•    You MAY use more than one theoretical approach if you would like.  You may also pull in other relevant features from the show that might not be focused on in that episode if they help with your application  (e.g. Sam’s mother died when he was young, Mary just broke up with her significant other).  Do not feel that you are restricted to characters with negative or maladaptive personalities (i.e., “healthy” characters can be interesting, too).    
•    Write for an “intelligent but naïve” reader.  Assume they are not familiar with the TV show or with personality theory.