Based on research from a variety of sources, it seems that approximately _____ of variations in personality traits are caused by environmental influences.

• A. one-tenth
• B. one-half
• C. three-fourths
• D. all

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of personality traits: Personality traits are enduring patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are expressed by individuals in various situations.
2. Recognize the role of environmental influences: Environmental influences refer to the external factors that can affect an individual's personality, such as culture, family, social interactions, and life experiences.
3. Consider the nature vs. nurture debate: This debate explores the relative contributions of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) to human development, including personality traits.
4. Review research findings: Studies in psychology often use twin and adoption studies to estimate the heritability of personality traits, which helps in understanding the proportion of variation due to environmental factors.
5. Interpret the options given: Analyze the options provided (one-tenth, one-half, three-fourths, all) in the context of research findings that suggest approximately half of the variations in personality traits are attributed to environmental influences.