Question 1

According to Gordon Allport's trait theory, which type of trait is most influential in shaping an individual's overall personality and behavior across contexts?

Accepted Answer

Cardinal trait

Question 2

Raymond Cattell used factor analysis to identify underlying personality traits. If a researcher finds that several behaviors cluster together statistically, what does this suggest according to Cattell's approach?

Accepted Answer

The behaviors are likely influenced by a common underlying trait.

Question 3

Hans and Sybil Eysenck proposed a model of personality based on two major dimensions. Which of the following best describes these dimensions?

Accepted Answer

Introversion-Extraversion and Neuroticism-Stability

Question 4

Which of the following is a critique of Eysenck's trait theory?

Accepted Answer

It does not account for differences across the lifespan.

Question 5

The Big Five Factor Model describes personality using five dimensions. Which dimension is associated with a tendency to be organized, disciplined, and reliable?

Accepted Answer

Conscientiousness

Question 6

Which of the following is a key assumption of the Big Five Factor Model?

Accepted Answer

Personality traits are stable throughout the lifespan.

Question 7

Janet is an older woman who is very involved in her community. Last year, she fell for a phone scam and lost a significant amount of her retirement. Based on this story, which Big Five personality trait is Janet likely high in?

Accepted Answer

Agreeableness

Question 8

Research on the Big Five Factor Model suggests that people who are high in neuroticism are most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Experience frequent negative emotions.

Question 9

If a psychologist wants to statistically identify clusters of behaviors that represent underlying personality traits, which method should they use?

Accepted Answer

Factor analysis

Question 10

Which of the following best describes a 'trait' in the context of personality research?

Accepted Answer

A habitual way of thinking, behaving, and feeling

Question 11

Which trait theorist identified 16 personality dimensions using factor analysis?

Accepted Answer

Cattell

Question 12

A person who scores high on openness in the Big Five Factor Model is most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Be creative and open to trying new things.

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT one of the Big Five personality dimensions?

Accepted Answer

Stability

Question 14

If a researcher finds that a trait is consistently replicated across cultures and generations, what does this suggest about the trait?

Accepted Answer

It is likely a universal trait.

Question 15

Which equation best represents the relationship between observed behaviors and underlying traits in factor analysis?

Accepted Answer

$X = \sum_{i=1}^{n} a_i T_i + \epsilon$

Question 16

A psychologist is studying the stability of personality traits over time. Which model would they most likely use to support the idea that traits remain consistent throughout the lifespan?

Accepted Answer

Big Five Factor Model

Question 17

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the concept of a 'secondary trait' according to Allport?

Accepted Answer

A person is punctual only when attending work meetings.

Question 18

Which Big Five trait is most associated with being trusting, helpful, and cooperative?

Accepted Answer

Agreeableness

Question 19

If a person scores low on extraversion and high on neuroticism, which of the following best describes their likely behavior?

Accepted Answer

Reserved and prone to anxiety

Question 20

Which of the following statements about trait theories is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Trait theories emphasize measurable, stable aspects of personality.

Trait Theories of Personality: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards