The Five Factor Model of Personality The Five

The Five Factor Model of Personality

The Five Factor Model of Personality �This is a way of looking at and understanding personality and is based on work carried out by Mc. Crae and Costa (2003) �Costa, P. T. , Jr. & Mc. Crae, R. R. (1992). Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R) and NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) manual. Odessa, FL: Psychological Assessment Resources

The Five Factor Model of Personality �The five factors or dimensions are: � Neuroticism � Extroversion � Openness to experience � Agreeableness � Conscientiousness

The Five Factor Model of Personality �Mc. Crae and Costa’s theory is that our personality is made up of a combination of our tendency towards each of these traits. So how we react to different situations will be unique to each individual.

Neuroticism �This is a tendency to experience negative emotions such as anger, anxiety or depression. �Individuals who score high in neuroticism tend to interpret ordinary situations as threatening and minor frustrations as hopelessly difficult.

Extroversion �Extroverts enjoy being with people and enjoy the stimulation and company of others �The tend to be enthusiastic and enjoy excitement. �In groups they like to talk and be assertive.

Openness to Experience �This is a general appreciation for art, emotion, adventure, unusual ideas, imagination, curiosity and variety of experience. �These individuals are often creative people who are aware of their feelings. �They are more likely to hold unconventional beliefs.

Agreeableness �This is a tendency to be compassionate and cooperative and a value of getting along with other people. �Agreeable people tend to be optimistic and believe other people to be basically honest, decent and trustworthy

Conscientiousness �This is a tendency to show self-discipline, act dutifully and aim for achievement �Individuals who show this trait tend to prefer planned behaviour rather than spontaneous behaviour.