Which technique would psychologists use to assess whether a cluster of characteristics that includes ambition,determination,persistence,and self-reliance reflects a single personality trait?

A) projective testing
B) factor analysis
C) empirically derived testing
D) situational testing

Factor analysis is a statistical technique that can be used to explore the underlying structure of a set of variables. By analyzing how strongly different characteristics are correlated with each other, psychologists can identify which ones tend to cluster together and may therefore reflect a single personality trait. Projective testing involves presenting ambiguous stimuli to participants and interpreting their responses, which may not be as reliable or objective. Empirically derived testing involves developing a test based on data from a sample of people, which may not be specifically related to the cluster of characteristics in question. Situational testing involves observing behavior in specific situations, which may not provide a comprehensive picture of personality traits.