Psychological characteristics refer to the traits and qualities that define an individual's mental and emotional processes. These can include aspects such as personality, motivation, attitudes, and emotional responses. Understanding these characteristics helps in assessing how people think, feel, and behave in various situations. Factors influencing psychological characteristics include genetics, environment, and life experiences. For example, personality traits like extroversion or introversion can shape how someone interacts socially. Additionally, cognitive processes such as perception and memory play a crucial role in how individuals interpret their surroundings and make decisions.