Personality traits are typically described as:

Personality traits are typically viewed as flexible and adaptable, reflecting the understanding that while traits may represent consistent patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, they can also be influenced by various situational factors and life experiences. This flexibility acknowledges that personality is not static; rather, people can show different traits in different contexts as they grow and develop over time. For example, someone may generally be extroverted in social situations but may display introverted qualities in more formal or stressful settings. This adaptability is essential in recognizing the complexity of human behavior and allows for the idea that individuals can change aspects of their personality throughout their lives.

The other options present more narrow or limiting views of personality traits. For instance, describing them as invariable and rigid overlooks the dynamic nature of human behavior and ignores the influence of environmental factors and personal growth. Stating that personality traits are only negative in nature disregards the wide range of traits that can be positive, neutral, or beneficial. Finally, claiming that personality traits are only relevant in childhood fails to recognize that personality continues to develop and can be influenced by experiences throughout an individual’s life, making traits relevant across the lifespan.