What is the main premise of trait theory of personality?

The main premise of trait theory of personality centers around the idea that personality is made up of broad traits, which are consistent characteristics that influence how individuals behave across various situations. This framework suggests that these traits, such as extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness, provide a structured approach to understanding individual differences in personality. By categorizing personality into these broad traits, psychologists can assess and predict behavior more systematically.

Trait theory emphasizes the stability of these traits over time, indicating that they are relatively enduring qualities that guide behavior. This perspective allows for the identification of typical personality patterns in individuals, making it a foundational concept in personality psychology. While other factors, such as environment or social interactions, may also play a role in shaping personality, trait theory primarily focuses on these inherent traits as key determinants of an individual's actions and characteristics.