Fieldwide frameworks are critical to the progress of a field for several reasons:
1. The fieldwide framework generally is followed by textbooks in the area. As such, they present the field and its positive qualities to students. When the framework succeeds, the best possible students are attracted to the discipline. When it fails, then fewer and less good students may be attracted to the discipline. To see more about fieldwide frameworks as they are used in today's textbooks, click here.
2. The fieldwide framework helps organize rationales for why the discipline is important, how it can productively interact with neighboring scientific disciplines, and how it can contribute to public welfare. When the framework is successful, this information is communicated clearly and persuasively. When the framework fails, the discipline appears weaker and less substantial.
3. The fieldwide framework helps organize theory and research within the field, along with other research pertinent to the field. When the framework is successful, the most up-to-date research knowledge is organized and its significance is apparent. When the framework is weaker, then research and theory may not connect as well.
As personality psychology grows and changes, new frameworks may be more appropriate for organizing its contents. This web site discusses some of those new frameworks, with a particular focus on the Systems Framework for Personality Psychology.