Question

Briefly describe each of the traits within the big five model of personality.

Answer 1

1. Openness: Characteristics of this trait include imagination and insight. Individuals high in this trait tend to have a broad range of interests, are adventurous and creative. Whereas, individuals low in this trait are often much more traditional, dislike change and may struggle with abstract thinking.

2. Conscientiousness: Features of this trait include detail orientation, with good impulse control and goal-directed behaviors. Highly conscientiousness tend to be organized and mindful of details. People who are low in this trait tend to dislike structure and schedules, and make a mess with their tasks.

3. Extraversion: This trait is characterized by excitability, sociability, assertiveness, and emotional expression. Extraverted individuals are outgoing and tend to gain energy in social situations. On the other hand, people low in extraversion (or introverted) tend to be more reserved in nature and may experience exhaustion in social settings.

4. Agreeableness: This traits includes attributes relating to prosocial behaviour such as trust, altruism and kindness towards others. Individuals high on agreeableness take a great deal of interest in other people and are highly cooperative, whereas those low on agreeableness tend to be manipulative and competitive.

5. Neuroticism: This trait includes aspects such as moodiness and emotional instability. Individuals who are high neuroticism often tend to experience rapid mood swings, anxiety, irritability and sadness. Those low in this trait tend to be more stable as they deal well with stress and are emotionally resilient.