GCSE Psychology 9-1

Psychology 9-1 GCSE -  7.1.6 - Understand the use of trait theory as a measure of personality, including strengths and weaknesses of trait theory: b) Allport (1936) cardinal, central and secondary personality traits - In 1936 allport found that one English dictionary alone contained more than 4,000 words describing different personality traits. He categorised these traits into three levels. Cardinal Traits - These are traits that dominate an individuals whole life, often to the point where an individual becomes known specifically for these traits. These are rare and tend to develop later in life. Central Traits - These are general characteristics that form the basic foundations of personality. These central traits, whilst not as dominating as cardinal traits, are the major characteristics you might use to describe another person. Terms such as 'intelligent', 'honest', 'shy' and 'anxious', are considered central traits. Secondary Tr...