Question

Source traits are:
(A) stable
(B) result of the interaction between surface traits
(C) considered as the building blocks of personality
(D) quite generalised dispositions
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• (A) and (B) only
• (B) and (C) only
• (A) and (C) only
• (A) and (D) only

Hint:

Remember the hierarchy: Source traits are the deep roots (stable, building blocks) that cause the visible parts of the tree (surface traits, observable behaviors).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question refers to Raymond Cattell's trait theory of personality. Cattell distinguished between two levels of traits:

Surface Traits: These are observable patterns of behavior that are on the surface. They are numerous and are the result of the interaction of source traits.
Source Traits: These are the deeper, more fundamental, and underlying structures of personality. They are fewer in number and are the primary cause of our consistent behaviors.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the given options based on Cattell's theory:

(A) stable: Source traits are considered the core, stable, and enduring aspects of personality. This statement is correct.
(B) result of the interaction between surface traits: This is incorrect. It's the other way around: surface traits are the result of the interaction between source traits.
(C) considered as the building blocks of personality: Source traits are seen as the fundamental, underlying factors or "building blocks" from which personality is constructed. This statement is correct.
(D) quite generalised dispositions: This description is more fitting for surface traits, which are more general and directly observable clusters of behavior.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements describing source traits are (A) and (C). Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.