Source Traits

Definition

These are the foundational characteristics or driving forces behind our personalities. They're less obvious than surface traits but influence our attitudes and behaviors significantly.

Analogy

If surface traits are like the cover of a book, source traits would be like the author who writes it. You may not see them directly when you look at the book (or person), but their influence shapes everything within it.

Related terms

Factor Analysis: A statistical method used to describe variability among observed variables in terms of fewer unobserved variables called factors. It's often used to identify source traits in personality research.

Personality Types: Broad categories into which individuals with common characteristics can be grouped based on their patterns of behavior, thoughts, and feelings.

Intrinsic Motivation: The drive to do something because it is interesting or satisfying in itself rather than for some external reward.