Eric is a careful driver. He usually obeys the speed limit and abides by all traffic regulations. Today, however, as he is driving to Florida with some friends for spring break, he is driving 40 km/h over the speed limit. Which personality theorist would be best able to explain this inconsistency in Eric's behaviour?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Walter Mischel's cognitive-affective personality theory suggests that behavior is determined by both the situation and the individual's personal characteristics. Eric's behavior is inconsistent with his usual careful driving because he is in a different situation (driving to Florida with friends for spring break) that may have different contextual cues and social pressures compared to his usual driving circumstances. Mischel's theory suggests that situational factors can override stable personality traits, which may explain Eric's behavior in this specific situation.

Eric Is a Careful Driver