Abstract Personality theories attempt to understand the behaviors and traits exhibited by humans (Patterson & Joseph , 2007). These theories have unique constructs that aim to analyze individual’s personalities the best way possible. The behavioral theory for example, attempts to understand a person’s behavior by analyzing the environment. This theory looks at the observable traits that characterize an individual. According to Trimboli, Marshall, and Keenan (2013), the psychodynamic theory digs deep into the conscious and unconscious mind in an effort to understand personality. This research assesses the role of the behavioral and psychodynamic theories on Chris Gardner’s character in the movie Pursuit of Happyness. In addition, it seeks to understand the internal and external forces that affect his personality in the film and the factors that enable him to succeed. Lastly, the research analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of the two theories in relation to Gardner’s personality in the movie. Introduction and description of film character The movie Pursuit of Happyness was produced in 2006 and it was based on a true story about a poor man who rose to become a rich stock broker. In the 1981 film set up, Chris Gardner appears determined to make it in life regardless of the circumstances surrounding him. His love for his son is impeccable and he seems to do everything possible to be there for him. He vows to provide for his son everything that he needs to make his life better. Chis Gardner is struggling financially and the portable bone density scanner business does not seem to support his livelihood. Despite his circumstances, his hard work and patience lands him a job as a stock broker. Generally, Garner is relentless, persistent, and determined to make it even when everything seems to be against him. The aim of the current research is to analyze the character of Chris Gardner in the movie by applying personality theories. Rational for chosen theories Understanding Chris Gardner’s personality requires an in-depth analysis of personality theories. These theories enable one to comprehend how and why people behave the way that they do. There are two personality theories applied in the current research; behavioral and psychodynamic. According to Patterson and Joseph (2007), the behavioral theory is used to understand the relation between an individual and his environment. This theory tends to look at the observable behaviors rather than personal feelings. The theory assumes that the external behaviors are a true reflection of a person’s personality (Schultz & Schultz, 2013). Teunissen and Bok (2013) note that the behavioral theory was proposed by Skinner in an attempt to understand people’s differences through behavior. Skinner noted that people often behave in a manner that warrants reward (Schultz & Schultz, 2013). Additionally, developing positive traits enables one to gain support from other individuals within the environment. Such traits include; compassion, empathy, and being understanding. Behavioral theory indicates that personalities are shaped and controlled by the society (Patterson & Joseph , 2007). Furthermore, negative traits can only be changed to positive traits after changing the environment. In this regard, this theory is