individual difference

[/ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəl ˈdɪfərəns/]
nounpl: individual differences
diferença individual
1. The variations in characteristics, abilities, traits, or behaviors among individuals within a population
Individual differences in intelligence are well documented in psychological research.
As diferenças individuais na inteligência estão bem documentadas na pesquisa psicológica.
2. Variations in personality, aptitude, skills, or psychological attributes that distinguish one person from another
Teachers must recognize individual differences among students to provide effective instruction.
Os professores devem reconhecer as diferenças individuais entre os alunos para fornecer instrução eficaz.
3. In psychology and education, the study of how and why people differ in cognitive abilities, learning styles, and behavioral patterns
The study of individual differences helps psychologists understand human behavior more comprehensively.
O estudo das diferenças individuais ajuda os psicólogos a entender o comportamento humano de forma mais abrangente.
The concept of 'individual differences' is central to both American and Brazilian psychology, education, and human resources. In the USA, it emphasizes the diversity and uniqueness of individuals, reflecting cultural values of individualism. In Brazil, while the concept is equally important in academic contexts, there is often greater emphasis on understanding these differences within the context of social and cultural groups. The term is widely used in educational policy, personnel selection, and therapeutic practice in both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
individual variationpersonal differencehuman variationtrait variationbehavioral difference
Antonyms / Antônimos
uniformitystandardizationhomogeneitysameness

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
diferença individual
Standard term used in psychological and educational contexts
São Paulo
diferença individual
Common in academic and professional settings
Rio de Janeiro
diferença individual
Standard usage, sometimes abbreviated as 'DI' in academic papers
Portugal
diferença individual
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; used in psychology and education

Related Words

personalityaptitudeintelligencelearning styletraitvariabilitydiversitypsychological assessment

Related Idioms & Phrases

no two people are alike
to each his own
different strokes for different folks
everyone has their own thing
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