Question

Explain the person-situation controversy ignited by Walter Mischel. ANSWER:

Answer 1

Answer: Walter Mischel created controversy with trait theorist by saying he found evidence in direct opposition to the idea that traits are behavioral patterns that occur regardless of most circumstances.

Answer 2

Walter Mischel sparked controversy with trait theorists and others by stating he had found evidence in direct opposition to the idea that traits are enduring behavioral patterns that occur regardless of most circumstances. Mischel believed that situations determine behaviors, not personality traits. Trait theorists argue that a person’s behaviors are guided by personality traits.