The Trait-Situation Controversy and the Concept of Interaction

Abstract

The trait-situation issue has been reviewed, discussed, criticized, and "resolved" by several individuals within the last few years. Four recent contributors to this topic--Bowers, Ekeham mar, Endler, and Mischel--all have in common recommending an inter actionist position. That is where the similarities end, however, to the extent that some of these individuals have advanced relative ly consistent but different interactionist views, while others have become tangled in a web of conceptual confusion over the concept of interaction. After determining the meaning of the term "interaction" as it has been used in major contributions to the trait-situation issue, it is concluded that intelligent debate on this topic requir es more precise use of this term.