The use of trait theory as a way to measure personality

• What is factor analysis used for in psychology?

  To measure personality traits
• What does factor analysis aim to identify?

  Overarching patterns in personality traits
• Who proposed the theory of cardinal, central, and secondary traits?

  Allport
• How many traits did Allport identify in his theory?

  Around 4,000 traits
• What are cardinal traits?

  Rare, dominant traits
• How do central traits differ from cardinal traits?

  Central traits are less strong and more common
• What are secondary traits?

  Traits not always shown but still present
• What did Cattell's 16PF assessment focus on?

  How far certain traits are displayed
• How many dimensions does the 16PF use to measure personality?


  16 dimensions
• What method did Cattell use to gather data for his assessment?

  Experiments, self-rated questionnaires, behaviors
• What are the strengths of trait theory?

  • Use of self-rated scales for comparison
  • Similar traits identified by different theorists
  • Adds validity to the claim of traits forming personalities
• What are the weaknesses of trait theory?

  • Requires self-awareness for ratings
  • Difficulty predicting behavior from traits
  • Does not explain how traits are formed
  • Limited in helping to change traits