The consistency of hysteric traits across three situational contexts

The consistency of personality traits across three situational contexts was demonstrated, thereby supporting the view of the individual as creator of societal groups and institutions. Nineteen sorority members were administered the Multivariate Personality Inventory (MPI), an instrument that assesses eight trait styles derived from a multivariate theory of personality in three conditions varying in both temporal order and immediate strength of sorority activity. As predicted, greater endorsement of the hysteric style was found for sorority members and the endorsement remained consistent across the three situational conditions. Results are discussed in light of the view that traits are fairly comparable across situations even though social behavior could vary depending upon the demands of the situation.