Question

Sheldon's ectomorphy type personality is similar to which type of personality of kretschmer?

• A. Pyknic type
• B. Asthetic type
• C. Athletic type
• D. None of these

Hint:

Remember the pairings by body shape: {Thin/Linear} (Ectomorph = Asthenic); {Muscular} (Mesomorph = Athletic); {Round/Soft} (Endomorph = Pyknic). These theories are now considered outdated but are historically important.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question compares two "constitutional" theories of personality, which link body type (physique) to temperament. We need to match Sheldon's "ectomorph" with its equivalent in Kretschmer's system. (Note: "Asthetic" is a common misspelling of "Asthenic").
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's compare the typologies:

William Sheldon's Somatotypes:
Ectomorph: Thin, linear, fragile body. Associated with cerebrotonic temperament (introverted, anxious, thoughtful).
Mesomorph: Muscular, athletic body. Associated with somatotonic temperament (assertive, adventurous).
Endomorph: Round, soft body. Associated with viscerotonic temperament (sociable, relaxed).

Ernst Kretschmer's Types:
Asthenic (or Leptosomic): Thin, lean, narrow body. This is the direct parallel to Sheldon's ectomorph.
Athletic: Muscular body. Corresponds to mesomorph.
Pyknic: Plump, round body. Corresponds to endomorph.

Based on this comparison, Sheldon's ectomorph (thin build) is similar to Kretschmer's asthenic type.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Sheldon's ectomorphy type corresponds to Kretschmer's asthenic (asthetic) type.