Trait theories of personality differ from psychodynamic and humanistic approaches because they primarily focus on identifying and measuring consistent patterns of behavior rather than exploring unconscious motives or personal growth.

• A. Focus on resolving unconscious conflicts from childhood.
• B. View personality as shaped entirely by situational factors.
• C. Highlight the individual's drive toward self-actualization and personal growth.
• D. Emphasize the measurement and description of stable personality characteristics.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the core focus of trait theories in personality psychology, which is to identify and measure consistent patterns of behavior and stable characteristics across time and situations.
2. Step 2: Compare this focus with psychodynamic approaches, which emphasize resolving unconscious conflicts often rooted in childhood experiences.
3. Step 3: Contrast trait theories with humanistic approaches, which highlight the individual's drive toward self-actualization and personal growth rather than stable traits.
4. Step 4: Recognize that trait theories do not view personality as shaped entirely by situational factors, but rather by enduring traits that influence behavior across different contexts.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the distinguishing feature of trait theories is their emphasis on the measurement and description of stable personality characteristics, setting them apart from other approaches.