Final answer:
Central traits consist of general characteristics that form our personality, while the halo effect is a cognitive bias where one's overall impression of a person affects their judgment of that individual's specific traits. Trait theorists like Allport and Cattell have categorized traits and developed theories to understand personalities, considering traits as existing on a continuum influenced by cultural contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Central Traits and the Halo Effect
Central traits are the characteristics that make up our personality, such as being loyal, kind, agreeable, or friendly. Gordon Allport, an early trait theorist, categorized these into cardinal traits, central traits, and secondary traits. While cardinal traits dominate an individual’s entire personality, central traits are more general aspects that shape how we are perceived and how we interact with the world. Secondary traits are situational and less consistent.
The halo effect is a cognitive bias where our overall impression of someone influences how we judge their specific traits. For example, if we consider someone physically attractive, we might also perceive them as kinder or more intelligent, despite a lack of evidence. Trait theorists like Raymond Cattell have worked to classify personality traits, narrowing them down to a manageable list and realizing that traits exist on a continuum rather than as a binary presence or absence.
Cultural influences also play a significant role in personality traits. What is considered a positive trait in one culture might not be viewed the same way in another. For instance, collectivist societies may value traits like group harmony over individual boldness, which is often more appreciated in individualistic cultures.