Define the person-situation controversy. Then, explain why the social-cognitive approach to personality differs from both trait theory and traditional learning theory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The answer should include the following information: (1) The person-situation controversy focuses on the question of whether behavior is caused more by personality or situational factors; (2) Classic trait theorists believe that personality traits are, in part, biologically determined and cause people to behave in the same way across situations and time. Walter Mischel, however, observed that personality traits were actually a poor predictor of specific behaviors. Social-cognitive theorists place more emphasis on the personal interpretation of the situation as a determinant of behavior than trait theorists; (3) Social-cognitive theorists agree with learning theorists that environmental factors (situations) can evoke powerful effects on personality and behavior. Whereas traditional learning theorists focus solely on these environmental factors, social-cognitive psychologists focus more on the individual's interpretation of these situations. People react differently to similar situations because they have different personal constructs, outcome expectancies, and loci of control.

Define the Person-Situation Controversy