Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

Free Materials For ESL Teachers and Learners

“Personality” ESL Discussion Questions

I. General Personality Traits
1. What makes a person introverted or extroverted?
2. How would you describe a kind person?
3. What traits do you think define a trustworthy person?
4. Can people change their personality over time?
5. What characteristics do you admire in a leader?

II. Personal Preferences
6. How do hobbies reveal a person’s character?
7. How does music taste reflect one’s personality?
8. What type of books might an adventurous person enjoy?
9. How do a person’s favorite movies reflect their character?
10. What does a person’s fashion style say about them?

III. Social Interactions
11. How does body language reveal someone’s personality?
12. How do people show empathy towards others?
13. What qualities make a good listener?
14. What makes a person seem approachable?
15. How can someone be a good conversationalist?

IV. Decision Making
16. How does risk-taking influence one’s personality?
17. What factors affect a person’s decision-making process?
18. How can people be more decisive in daily life?
19. What makes a person impulsive or cautious?
20. How does one’s personality affect problem-solving skills?

V. Emotions and Coping Mechanisms
21. How do people express anger differently?
22. What strategies do people use to cope with stress?
23. How do some people stay optimistic in difficult situations?
24. How do people with different personalities handle criticism?
25. What are some ways people show resilience?

VI. Work and Career
26. What traits make someone a good team player?
27. How do certain personalities fit specific jobs better?
28. What makes a person a good leader at work?
29. How do people’s work ethics differ based on personality?
30. How can personality traits help someone succeed in their career?

VII. Relationships and Friendships
31. What qualities make a person a good friend?
32. How do different personalities handle conflicts in relationships?
33. What traits are important in a romantic partner?
34. How do people’s personalities affect their communication styles?
35. How can people with different personalities maintain a strong relationship?

VIII. Personal Growth and Development
36. How do people’s personalities change as they age?
37. How can people improve their communication skills?
38. How do people overcome shyness or social anxiety?
39. How do people develop self-confidence?
40. What are some ways to develop a more positive attitude?

IX. Cultural Influences on Personality
41. How does culture shape a person’s personality?
42. How do cultural values affect one’s character?
43. How can people adapt to different cultural norms?
44. How does language influence one’s personality?
45. How do cultural differences affect friendships and relationships?

X. Personality Assessment
46. What are some common methods for assessing personality?
47. How accurate are personality tests like Myers-Briggs?
48. Can personality tests help people understand themselves better?
49. How can knowing your personality type help in daily life?
50. What are the benefits of understanding others’ personality types?

XI. Ethics and Morality
51. How do people’s personalities affect their moral values?
52. What traits make someone an ethical person?
53. How can people develop stronger moral principles?
54. How do different personalities approach ethical dilemmas?
55. How does one’s personality shape their sense of right and wrong?

XII. Creativity and Innovation
56. How do people’s personalities influence their creativity?
57. What traits make someone more innovative?
58. How can people tap into their creative potential?
59. How do different personalities approach problem-solving?
60. How do personality types affect artistic expression?