Multilevel simultaneous component analysis for studying intra-individual variability and inter-individual differences

Marieke E. Timmerman

Eva Ceulemans

Anna Lichtwarck-Aschoff

Kristóf Vansteelandt

pp. 291-318

in: Jaan Valsiner, Peter Molenaar, Maria Lyra, Nandita Chaudhary (eds), Dynamic process methodology in the social and developmental sciences, Berlin, Springer, 2009

Abstract

In psychology, the distinction between traits and states has become commonplace for a long time: Whereas traits pertain to person features that are relatively stable and consistent, states refer to person features that fluctuate across time, for example as a result of situational influences. For instance, Allport and Odbert (1936) provided an extensive list of trait and state terms to characterize personality and personal behavior. The trait terms describe permanent, consistent dispositions and were considered to 'symbolize most clearly "real" traits of personality" (Allport & Odbert, 1936, p. 26). The state terms describe "Temporary Moods or Activities". They were not considered to symbolize personality, and were merely included for the sake of completeness.