Question

Which of the following is a basic assumption of trait theorists?

a) Each trait is formed in the id.
b) Traits cannot be quantified.
c) Traits are developed after a person reaches self-actualization.
d) Every trait is universal

Answer 1

Trait theorists assume that personality traits are universal, stable, and measurable characteristics that vary in degree among individuals, influencing their behavior across various situations. They also believe these traits exist along a continuum, rather than being simply present or absent.

Step-by-step explanation:

Trait theorists hold a basic assumption that personality can be understood by identifying and measuring individual traits, which are characteristic ways of behaving. According to these theorists, traits are universal and can be found to varying degrees within every individual. A fundamental aspect of trait theory is the belief that these traits are consistent and stable over time, influencing a person's actions and reactions across different situations and contexts. Early trait theorists, like Gordon Allport, classified thousands of different descriptive words for people's behavior into categories such as cardinal, central, and secondary traits, which capture varying levels of influence in a person's life and behavior.

Later, Raymond Cattell utilized a statistical technique known as factor analysis to condense these numerous traits into a smaller, more manageable set of 16 personality factors. These factors, which he assessed with his 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF), demonstrated that traits exist along continua rather than as binary present/absent characteristics and that each person exhibits these traits to different extents.

Answer 2

Trait theorists assume that every trait is universal, meaning that all people have various traits that vary only in the degree to which they are manifested.

Step-by-step explanation:

The basic assumption of trait theorists is d) Every trait is universal:

Trait theory posits that personality can be conceived through the lens of various traits, which are characteristic ways of behaving that are thought to be universal. This understanding comes from the work of trait theorists like Gordon Allport, who delineated thousands of traits into categories such as cardinal, central, and secondary traits.

Unlike the propositions that traits form in the id (a psychoanalytic concept), that they cannot be quantified, or that they develop after self-actualization (a humanistic perspective), trait theory maintains that traits are common to all people and vary only in degree. Every trait is universal is a basic assumption of trait theorists. This means that all people possess the same basic traits, although individuals may differ in the degree to which each trait is expressed.