On the generality of trait relationships: Some analyses based on Fiske's paper.

Examines D. W. Fiske's (see record 1974-03164-001) argument that different methods of measuring 12 Murray needs have different intertrait relationships. A series of analyses of the correlation matrices upon which Fiske based his argument indicated that (a) the different assessment methods varied in the average absolute correlation between scales; (b) there was a substantial amount of similarity in the interattribute relationships for the 5 methods; and (c) the underlying factor structures were highly comparable, with 3 factors common to all factor matrices. Thus, within the domain of Murray needs, there is a large degree of generality of intertrait relationships and underlying structural dimensions, regardless of measurement procedures. Implications for the construct validation of personality constructs are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)