Gompertz curve

a function or curve used to describe a pattern of growth that is slow at the beginning and end but rather rapid or steep in the middle, thus forming a shape resembling a leaning letter S. For example, the adoption of a fashion fad may follow a Gompertz curve: Few people purchase the product initially, but there is a subsequent period of highly increased sales that precedes a lessening of interest in the product and ultimately very low sales as the fad dies out. Gompertz curves often are used in survival analysis. Also called Gompertz distribution; Gompertz function. [Benjamin Gompertz (1779–1865), British mathematician]

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Psychology term of the day

March 16th 2025

personality assessment

the evaluation of such factors as intelligence, skills, interests, aptitudes, creative abilities, attitudes, and facets of psychological development by a variety of methods and techniques. These include (a) observational methods that use behavior sampling, interviews, and rating scales; (b) personality inventories, such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory; and (c) projective techniques, such as the Rorschach Inkblot Test and Thematic Apperception Test. The uses of personality assessment are numerous, including in the clinical evaluation of children and adults; in educational and vocational counseling; in industry and other organizational settings; and in rehabilitation.