Allport's trait theory of personality

Definition

Allport's trait theory of personality is a psychological perspective that focuses on identifying and describing individual traits, which are stable characteristics that influence behavior across different situations. It emphasizes that people possess unique combinations of traits that shape their personality.

Related terms

Trait:

A specific characteristic or quality that influences an individual's behavior consistently.

Cardinal Trait:

Dominant traits in an individual's personality that have a strong impact on their behavior and become the defining aspect of their identity.

Central Trait: General traits in an individual's personality that contribute to shaping their overall behavior but are not as dominant as cardinal traits.