Allport based his theory of personality on the uniqueness of individuals using his argument on dispositions between human beings. He showed that the basic units of personality in an individual are the proprium and the personal dispositions of an individual (Ryckman, 2012). In regard to personal dispositions, Allport argued that there are traits that are common among individuals, and there are those traits that are specific for an individual, that determine the individual’s unique personality (Ryckman, 2012).

Allport’s division of personality dispositions into three major types help to explain the tendency of similar personality behaviors between people, as well as, the uniqueness between individuals. The first category of dispositions, according to Allport, is cardinal dispositions or traits. Allport argued that these are very obvious, dominating and that they cannot be hidden from other people. He postulated that not all people have them. They arouse extreme urges in people. An example is a strong drive to agitate for justice. The second level of dispositional traits, according to Allport is central dispositions (Ryckman, 2012). They are the traits that are common in people and make their personalities. Allport established that people have five to ten of them. Examples are generosity, sensitivity and honesty. The third levels of dispositions are secondary (Ryckman, 2012). These traits can be recognized in an individual only in certain circumstances. The situation makes the traits to be noticeable. An example is when a person is frightened while in front of a group for a presentation.

These levels of traits, as put out by Allport help bring out the differences between individual personalities. The cardinal traits are the most distinguishing. The secondary traits are also distinguishing in that, the traits present in one individual, will be different from the traits present in the other. Additionally, secondary traits come out differently in different individuals.

Reference

Ryckman, R. (2012). Theories of personality. Clifton Park, NY: Cengage Learning.