Definition of good grooming and how significant is goood grooming to ones personality?

Answer 1

'Good Grooming' is a fairly arbitrary term, and the meaning is culturally defined and varies. Generally, though the implication is that one's personal hygiene practices conform loosely to the prevailing cultural norm. In western cultures, particularly the United States, where deodorant/antiperspirant use is prevalent, running water is accessible for daily bathing, make-up and barber shops are always within easy access, these standards can run fairly high.

Generally, daily bathing is a given. Clean hair, shaving, moderate make-up, clean clothing in reasonable repair, lack of odors, oral hygiene, trimmed finger and toe-nails, appropriate clothing are all things that are generally expected.

The significance of this in regards to personality is minimal. However, personal grooming is one of a number of factors assessed by psychologists when performing a psychological services intake assessment, triage assessment, etc. On every visit to a psychologist or psychiatrist (or counselor of any sort), they will generally take abreviated notes (using standard codes) on this, and a number of areas of one's general presentation and demeanor.

This is important because inattention to personal grooming (whatever the prevailing standard is deemed to be) is a frequent symptom of depression or other psychological malady, and is therefore a useful clue for the clinical psychologist for spotting problems. A total lack of concern for hygiene can suggest any number of underlying issues, and a diminishing concern is certainly something to watch for in treating a person with severe psychological problems.

Obviously, appearance is not the be-all, end-all of psychological fitness. However, it is frequently relied on as a partial clue to a person's overall level of functioning... for a judicious professional. Obviously, there are all sorts of exceptions. A filthy person just rescued after a week stranded in the wilderness is not necessarily maladjusted, any more than an impeccably groomed and attired person is necessarily functional and healthy. An auto mechanic who rushes in late to a marriage counseling appointment in work clothes can't be compared to a stay-at-home spouse who arrives early and immaculately attired. The best comparison is from day to day for the same person.

Answer 2

good grooming