Although there is evidence for longitudinal stability in personality traits, much research also suggests that people show signifi cant variability in trait-related behavior when they encounter different social contexts

Although there is evidence for longitudinal stability in personality traits, much research also suggests that people show signifi cant variability in trait-related behavior when they encounter different social contexts. To some, this variability in trait-related behavior suggests that trait constructs are inadequate as a basis for personality theory. Yet others judge that the stability in behavior across time and place that does exist is suffi cient to support the utility of trait theories (the person–situation controversy).