Gordon Allport's trait theory is a foundational framework for understanding personality. He categorized traits into three levels:
- Cardinal Traits: Dominant traits that define an individual's entire personality, often influencing most behaviors (e.g., altruism in Mother Teresa).
- Central Traits: General characteristics that form the basic building blocks of personality (e.g., honesty, sociability).
- Secondary Traits: Traits that are more situational and less consistent, such as preferences or attitudes (e.g., liking a specific type of music).
Allport's theory emphasized the uniqueness of individuals, suggesting that personality is a combination of these traits varying in prominence and influence.