Which statement best describes trait theory?

• A. Personality traits are unstable and unpredictable
• B. Personality is entirely due to environment
• C. Personality changes completely with mood
• D. Personality traits are stable and can predict behavior

Answer: (D)

Trait theory says personality is made up of stable, enduring traits that shape how a person tends to behave across different situations. Because these traits stay relatively constant over time, they help us predict how someone is likely to act in new or challenging situations. In sport or PE, this means a person with strong, consistent traits like determination and self-discipline is likely to persist, follow game plans, and perform reliably even under pressure. That’s why describing personality traits as stable and able to predict behavior best captures what trait theory is about.

The other ideas describe personality as unstable, determined entirely by the environment, or changing completely with mood, which would make consistent patterns of behavior across different games or practices unlikely.