A personality _____ is a durable disposition to behave in a particular way in a variety of situations.

The correct term that fills in the blank is "trait." A personality trait is defined as a consistent pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that an individual exhibits across various situations. These traits can range in scope and intensity; for example, someone might be described as extroverted or introverted, conscientious or careless, anxious or calm.

The significance of personality traits is that they help in predicting how a person might respond in different contexts. They are critical for psychological assessments and can influence important life outcomes such as career success, relationships, and overall well-being. The study of personality traits is a key component of psychology, particularly in areas such as personality psychology and psychometrics.