Question

According to Allport, a single trait that dominates an individual's entire personality is called:

• A. Central trait
• B. Cardinal trait
• C. Source trait
• D. Secondary trait

Hint:

Think of the hierarchy like this: {Cardinal} traits are like a king or queen—rare, but they rule everything. {Central} traits are like the main pillars of a building—the core foundation of personality. {Secondary} traits are like the furniture—they are there, but only show up in certain rooms (situations).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question pertains to Gordon Allport's trait theory of personality and seeks the specific term he used for a rare but all-encompassing personality trait.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Gordon Allport categorized personality traits into a three-tiered hierarchy:

Cardinal trait (B): This is a singular, overarching trait that fundamentally defines an individual's life. People possessing such a trait are often primarily identified by it. Allport considered cardinal traits to be uncommon; not everyone exhibits one. Examples include Machiavellianism as exemplified by Machiavelli, or the profound compassion of Mother Teresa.
Central trait (A): These represent the core characteristics that form the foundational elements of personality. Every individual possesses a limited number of central traits (e.g., honesty, kindness, shyness) that would be suitable for inclusion in a letter of recommendation.
Secondary trait (D): These traits are narrower in scope and manifest only under specific circumstances or in particular situations (e.g., experiencing anxiety during public speaking).
Source trait (C) is a concept originating from Raymond Cattell's trait theory, not from Gordon Allport.
Step 3: Final Answer:
According to Allport, a single, dominant trait is referred to as a cardinal trait.