Some Definitions

Categories:

Holistic Graphology:

This approach starts by registering an intuitive reaction to the script, based on an overall appearance of the script. It then deduces an individual's type, and uses that for the resulting graphological report.

The Psychogram is probably the best known system of handwriting analysis, that falls within the approach of Holistic Graphology.

Integrative Graphology:

This approach starts by registering what the characterstics of the script are, and building a graphological profile from that.

Graphoanalysis is the best known system of handwriting analysis that falls within the approach of Integrative Graphology.

Symbolic Analysis:

This approach looks at specific elements within a script, and assigns to them various meanings, depending upon whether the macro-script is being looked at, or the micro-script.

Max Pulver's _Symbolik Der Handschrift_ is probably the best known work, that falls under this approach. This approach does provide the theoretical basis, for the other two approac

Categories and GraphoAnalysis definition (below) supplied by "Jonathon Blake; The Graphology-L FAQ"

Definitions:

GraphoAnalysis^TM (gra.fo.a.nal'a.sis)

The system of handwriting analysis as taught by the International Graphoanalysis Society (IGAS).

Library of Congress classification index heading:

PSYCHOLOGY

Graphology (gra.fol.le.ji)

The study of handwriting and its revaluation of personality facets and character traits through slant, pressure, etc. The manifestation through writing of patterns of thought, emotional discipline, energy and enthusiasm, curiosity, independence, imagination, manual dexterity, hidden aptitudes and natural abilities.

The term "Graphology" was coined by Abbé Hypolite Michon in 1871.

Black's Law Dictionary Revised Fourth Edition Page 846

Handwriting

The chirography of a person; the cast or form of writing peculiar to a person, including the size, shape, and style of letters, tricks of penmanship, and whatever gives individuality to his writing, distinguishing it from that of other persons. In Re Hyland's Will, 1 Gib 41,58 St.R. 798, 27 N.Y.S. 961, 963.