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trait

n.

1. an enduring personality characteristic that describes or determines an individual’s behavior across a range of situations.

2. in genetics, an attribute resulting from a hereditary predisposition (e.g., hair color, facial features).

3. in item response theory, an individual’s level of competence on a certain task or aptitude measurement.

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Psychology term of the day

April 29th 2024

environmentalism

environmentalism

n.

1. the concept that the environment and learning are the chief determinants of behavior and thus are the major cause of interpersonal variations in ability and adjustment; accordingly, behavior is largely modifiable. Compare hereditarianism. See also nature–nurture.

2. a social movement and position that emphasizes the ecological relationship between humans and the natural environment and strives to protect the environment as an essential resource. —environmentalist n.