Agentic is a relatively new term in the field of psychology to describe personality traits related to individuals' agency or the power to take control of their actions. The word is pronounced /əˈdʒɛntɪk/, with the first syllable being reduced to the schwa sound /ə/. The /dʒ/ sound represents the phoneme 'j' as in 'jail', and the second syllable /ɛntɪk/ has a clear stress on the second vowel. The spelling of 'agentic' reflects its etymological roots in the Latin word 'agens' meaning 'doing'.
Agentic is an adjective derived from the noun agency, which refers to the capacity or ability to act and exert control over one's own actions and decisions. As such, the term "agentic" describes a person or entity that exhibits qualities of agency, autonomy, and self-directedness.
In social psychology, the concept of agency is often contrasted with the notion of communion or communal behavior. Agentic individuals are those who tend to prioritize their personal goals, take initiative, and actively engage in making decisions and exerting control over their environment. They are characterized by their assertiveness, self-confidence, and independent thinking.
Agentic behavior is typically associated with qualities such as leadership, ambition, and self-motivation. Individuals who possess a high degree of agency are more likely to take charge of situations, assume responsibility for their actions, and strive for personal achievements. They are driven by a desire for control and self-determination, and they actively seek opportunities to exercise their influence and make an impact on their surroundings.
In summary, "agentic" refers to an individual or entity that demonstrates a strong sense of agency, taking initiative, exhibiting assertiveness, and exerting control over their own actions and decisions. It is a term that signifies self-directedness, autonomy, and the capacity to act independently.
The word "agentic" is derived from the noun "agent" and the suffix "-ic".
The term "agent" ultimately originates from the Latin word "agens" or "agentis", which means "doer" or "one who acts". It entered the English language through Old French and Middle English variations.
The suffix "-ic" in English is derived from Latin and Greek and is commonly used to form adjectives. It typically means "pertaining to" or "characterized by".
Therefore, "agentic" combines the noun "agent" with the suffix "-ic" to form an adjective that means "pertaining to an agent" or "characterized by agency". In various contexts, "agentic" can refer to someone who has the ability to exert power or take action independently, or it can describe the qualities associated with acting as an agent.