This personality trait is usually linked to children, but science proves it is essential for adults too.
Although people high in this personality trait generally suffer from more stress and anxiety, some have a surprising health advantage.
Although people high in this personality trait generally suffer from more stress and anxiety, some have a surprising health advantage.
Being neurotic can be good for your health in some circumstances.
So-called ‘healthy neurotics’ are people who combine neurotic personality traits with being conscientious.
Healthy neurotics have lower levels of markers of inflammation in their blood, suggesting their immune system is functioning better.
The self-discipline of being conscientious counteracts unhealthy neurotic behaviours like overeating and drinking too much alcohol.
Dr Nicholas A. Turiano, the study’s first author, said:
“These people are likely to weigh the consequences of their actions, and therefore their level of neuroticism coupled with conscientiousness probably stops them from engaging in risky behaviors.”
A survey of 1,054 adults found that those who were both neurotic and conscientious had lower levels of inflammation in their blood.
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is an immune protein that is linked to chronic disease.
The neurotic and conscientious also had fewer chronic health problems and lower body-mass indexes.
The results are somewhat surprising as neurotic people tend to suffer more from stress and anxiety, which are also linked to worse health.
Dr Turiano said:
“Speculation is that healthy neurotics may be hyper-vigilant about their lifestyle and about seeking treatment when a problem arises.
It’s their conscientiousness that guides their decisions to prevent disease or quickly get treatment when they don’t feel well.”
Better physical health is not the first advantage identified for the neurotic, as I’ve written previously:
“High levels of creativity may go hand-in-hand with neuroticism.
It’s because the area of the brain which is linked to creativity also has the tendency to overthink things and worry.
Neuroticism is characterised by negative thinking in a range of areas.”
Neurotic people also seem to suffer from indecision as a result of worrying about the future.
One way to reduce this is to start learning to take action:
“Learning to value taking action is an important way of reducing the harmful effects of neuroticism.
People high in anxiety and neuroticism dislike taking action, recent research reveals.”
→ Read on about the harmful effects of neuroticism.
The study was published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity (Turiano et al., 2012).
People with high fluid intelligence think quickly and see relationships between ideas.
People with high fluid intelligence think quickly and see relationships between ideas.
Laid back people — who can be disorganised and careless — tend to have higher IQs, one study suggests.
These traits are part of one of the five major aspects of personality called conscientiousness — or, in this case, lack of conscientiousness.
Being low on the personality trait of conscientiousness is linked to higher fluid intelligence, the researchers found.
One of the reasons may be that a quick mind can make up for what a person lacks in discipline.
As a result, those with higher IQs can afford to be more relaxed because they do not have to work so hard to achieve the same success.
Fluid intelligence is one of two types of intelligence and refers, roughly speaking to the speed at which the brain works.
As the study’s authors explain it:
“Fluid intelligence has been defined as our ‘‘on-the-spot reasoning ability, a skill not basically dependent on our experience’’.
It involves things like quick thinking, reasoning, seeing relationships between ideas, approaching new problems, and is considered to be biologically based.”
Fluid intelligence is in contrast to concrete intelligence, which refers to something like general knowledge: the things that people have learnt over their lifetime.
The study included 201 adults of all ages who were given tests of both intelligence and personality.
The results showed that while crystallised intelligence was not linked to lacking conscientiousness, fluid intelligence was.
It may be because people with higher fluid intelligence do not have to work as hard, so they become more laid back over the years.
The study’s authors explain:
“…in a competitive environment less intelligent individuals become more Conscientious in order to cope with their disadvantage, or that more intelligent individuals do not become so conscientious, as they can rely on their fluid intelligence to accomplish most tasks.”
The study was published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences (Moutafi et al., 2004).
Fiction is a way to engage with the darker aspects of your personality.
Fiction is a way to engage with the darker aspects of your personality.
People tend to identify with fictional villains who have similar dark personality traits to their own.
Those with chaotic and tricky sides to their personality may identify with The Joker in the Batman movies.
People who are ambitious and intellectual might secretly admire Sherlock Holmes’ nemesis Professor Moriarty.
Fictional baddies give us a chance to recognise the darker sides of our personalities without the natural repulsion to real-world criminals.
Ms Rebecca Krause, the study’s first author, said:
“Our research suggests that stories and fictional worlds can offer a ‘safe haven’ for comparison to our darker selves.
When people feel safe, they are more interested in comparisons to negative characters that are similar to themselves in other respects.”
Typically, people recoil from negative parts of their personality, except when the context is fictional, said Ms Krause:
“People want to see themselves in a positive light.
Finding similarities between oneself and a bad person can be uncomfortable.”
Professor Derek Rucker, study co-author, said:
“[However], when you are no longer uncomfortable with the comparison, there seems to be something alluring and enticing about having similarities with a villain.”
The study included 1,685 people in five lab studies along with data from over 232,000 people registered with a website called CharacTour, an online, character-focused entertainment platform.
The results showed that people consistently preferred villains who share some similarities with their own personalities.
Being similar to a fictional villain does not threaten people’s self-image, the researchers think.
Professor Rucker said:
“Given the common finding that people are uncomfortable with and tend to avoid people who are similar to them and bad in some way, the fact that people actually prefer similar villains over dissimilar villains was surprising to us.
Honestly, going into the research, we both were aware of the possibility that we might find the opposite.”
The study was published in the journal Psychological Science (Krause & Rucker, 2020).
More people are staying single for life and around one-in-twenty have never had a partner by age 40.
Could chasing perfection be doing more harm than good to your mental health?
Could chasing perfection be doing more harm than good to your mental health?
The personality trait of perfectionism is strongly linked to developing obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Young children who have excessive self-control and perfectionist tendencies have double the chance of developing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), psychologists have found.
For the study, children were asked to draw a perfect circle over three and a half minutes while researchers encouraged them to do better.
Those that concentrated more intensely were deemed to have perfectionist tendencies.
Scans also found that perfectionists had smaller brain volumes in an area linked to OCD, the anterior cingulate cortex.
OCD often involves recurring thoughts or obsessions, like having things in order or a fear of germs.
Dr Kirsten E. Gilbert, the study’s first author, said:
“Having a lot of self-control and striving for perfection often are considered by parents and society as good because they can eliminate mistakes, but excessive self-control and perfectionism raise a red flag.
In adolescents and adults, these characteristics are associated with OCD and other disorders, such as anorexia and social anxiety.
We’ve now been able to link this to OCD risk in children.”
It is important to catch OCD as early as possible in life so treatment can help to reduce compulsions and obsessions.
Dr Gilbert said:
“Some kids were very self-critical.
The researcher would point out flaws, but the child was critical of the effort, too.
That excessive perfectionism was the strongest predictor of OCD later on.”
The conclusions come from a study of 292 children aged just 4 and 5-years-old.
They were followed for 12 years, during which time 35 developed OCD.
Perfectionists were twice as likely to go on and develop OCD.
Dr Joan L. Luby, study co-author, said:
“In its most severe forms, OCD is a highly disabling and intractable disorder.
Therefore, this first identification of tangible risk behaviors in early childhood opens exciting new opportunities for the design of preventive interventions.”
Dr Gilbert concluded:
“One of my interests, ideally, is to create therapies geared toward prevention.
We also want to look at the role of parenting because if one of these kids has a parent who’s always saying, ‘That’s not good enough!’ you can see how this problem could spiral.”
The study was published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry (Gilbert et al., 2018).
Learn the psychology and neuroscience behind sensation seeking and how it affects decision-making and risk-taking behaviours.
Sensation seeking is a psychological trait characterised by the desire for novel and intense experiences.
Sensation seeking refers to a personality trait that drives individuals to pursue varied, complex, and intense experiences.
It often involves a willingness to take risks for the sake of excitement.
Psychologist Marvin Zuckerman pioneered the study of sensation seeking, identifying it as a key factor influencing risk-taking behaviours.
He developed the Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS), a tool widely used to measure this trait.
Sensation seeking can be adaptive, leading to thrilling achievements, or maladaptive, increasing vulnerability to danger.
Its influence depends on how it interacts with other personality traits and life circumstances.
People with high sensation-seeking tendencies often display a strong need for novelty and may seek out unusual or even dangerous experiences.
This drive can manifest in both positive and negative behaviours, affecting many areas of life, including relationships, education, and career paths.
Research reveals that sensation seeking has biological underpinnings in brain function and neurotransmitters.
These neurological factors contribute to a heightened preference for excitement and reduced sensitivity to potential risks.
Genetic influences also play a role.
Studies have linked certain genetic markers, such as variations in the dopamine receptor gene (DRD4), to higher sensation-seeking behaviour.
Additionally, environmental factors, including upbringing and exposure to stimulating experiences, shape how sensation seeking develops.
Cultural norms shape how sensation seeking manifests.
In some societies, thrill-seeking activities like extreme sports are celebrated, while others may discourage risk-taking.
For instance:
Understanding cultural influences helps contextualise the diversity in sensation-seeking expressions worldwide.
In globalised societies, the blending of cultural values has led to new patterns of sensation seeking.
For example, younger generations exposed to international media may adopt more adventurous behaviours compared to older generations.
Gender plays a significant role in how sensation seeking presents.
Men generally score higher on sensation-seeking scales, particularly in areas involving physical risk.
Women may exhibit different forms of sensation seeking, such as social or aesthetic experiences.
These differences are influenced by both biological and social factors, including hormonal activity and cultural expectations.
Research suggests that testosterone levels may contribute to heightened sensation-seeking tendencies in men.
Socialisation processes, where boys are encouraged to take risks and girls are steered toward caution, further reinforce these patterns.
Despite general trends, individual variations exist within each gender, demonstrating that sensation seeking is a complex and multifaceted trait.
Sensation seeking tends to peak during adolescence and gradually decline with age.
Adolescents are particularly drawn to novelty and excitement due to ongoing brain development and social influences.
As individuals mature, increased impulse control and changing priorities often reduce high-risk behaviours.
However, adults may still engage in sensation-seeking activities in ways aligned with personal growth and recreational interests.
In later life, some individuals experience a resurgence of sensation seeking, often driven by a desire to pursue new hobbies or travel experiences.
Understanding these shifts across the lifespan can inform strategies for healthy risk-taking at different stages of development.
Sensation seeking can influence career decisions, especially in fields that offer high levels of stimulation.
Examples of careers suited for high sensation seekers include:
Individuals with lower sensation-seeking tendencies may prefer careers emphasising routine and predictability.
Understanding one’s sensation-seeking profile can guide more fulfilling career choices.
For employers, recognising employees’ sensation-seeking tendencies can enhance job placement and satisfaction.
Providing opportunities for stimulating tasks or controlled risk-taking can boost engagement and performance.
High sensation seeking is associated with both positive and negative mental health outcomes.
Benefits:
Risks:
Mental health professionals can use sensation-seeking assessments to tailor interventions, promoting safe ways to satisfy this trait.
Interventions for managing risky behaviours include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and harm reduction strategies.
Encouraging alternative forms of excitement, such as artistic pursuits or athletic challenges, helps redirect sensation-seeking drives into constructive outlets.
For individuals with intense sensation-seeking drives, adopting strategies to balance excitement and safety is crucial.
Tips include:
Parents and educators can also play a role by providing stimulating yet controlled environments for children with high sensation-seeking tendencies.
Community programmes offering adventure-based learning or supervised recreational activities create positive outlets for sensation seekers.
These programmes encourage teamwork, safety awareness, and personal growth.
The rise of digital platforms offers new avenues for sensation seekers to explore.
Social media, video games, and online communities provide instant access to novel experiences.
However, the digital realm also poses risks:
Balancing digital engagement with real-world experiences helps maintain healthy levels of sensation seeking.
Parents can help by setting guidelines for technology use and promoting outdoor or creative activities.
Educators may integrate technology-based learning with experiential approaches to foster balanced development.
Ongoing research continues to unravel the complexities of sensation seeking.
Emerging areas of focus include:
Future insights will enhance our understanding of how sensation seeking shapes human experience and drives innovation.
Technological advancements, such as brain imaging and wearable sensors, offer promising tools for studying sensation seeking in real-time environments.
These innovations may lead to personalised approaches for managing high sensation-seeking tendencies.
Sensation seeking is a dynamic and multifaceted trait influencing diverse aspects of life.
By recognising its impact on behaviour, health, and career choices, individuals can better harness its potential.
With thoughtful strategies, sensation seekers can enjoy thrilling experiences while mitigating associated risks, leading to a balanced and fulfilling life.
Learn about trait theories and how they explain personality traits. Understand their role in predicting behaviour and personal growth.
Trait theories provide a foundational understanding of how personality traits shape behaviour and influence human interactions.
Trait theory focuses on the study of personality traits, which are enduring characteristics influencing a person’s behaviour across situations.
These theories aim to identify and measure the traits that make up an individual’s personality.
Understanding trait theory provides insights into consistent patterns of behaviour and their psychological underpinnings.
Trait theory also allows psychologists and researchers to predict behaviours based on a person’s established traits, making it a powerful tool in applied psychology.
Trait theory has evolved significantly since its inception.
In the early 20th century, Gordon Allport distinguished between cardinal, central, and secondary traits, laying the groundwork for modern trait classification.
Raymond Cattell advanced the field by using factor analysis to develop a 16-factor model of personality.
Hans Eysenck’s theory simplified traits into three dimensions: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism.
These contributions shaped the systematic study of traits and their applications.
Modern advancements continue to refine and expand on these foundational ideas, integrating new methodologies like machine learning and biological research.
Gordon Allport emphasised the uniqueness of individuals and the importance of understanding personal dispositions.
Raymond Cattell’s work on factor analysis led to the identification of key personality factors, influencing later models.
Hans Eysenck proposed a biologically based model, integrating physiological processes with personality traits.
These theorists paved the way for modern trait theories, including the widely recognised Big Five model.
Recent research builds upon their theories, creating hybrid models that incorporate situational variables to address critiques of traditional trait theory.
The Big Five model categorises personality into five core traits:
Each trait represents a spectrum, allowing for a nuanced understanding of personality.
The Big Five model’s empirical foundation makes it a widely accepted framework in psychological research.
Researchers continually explore how these traits influence specific behaviours, such as academic performance and risk-taking tendencies.
Trait theory raises questions about the universality of personality traits.
Research shows both commonalities and cultural differences in trait expression.
Studies reveal that while the Big Five traits appear in many cultures, specific traits may manifest differently due to social norms and values.
This underscores the need for culturally adaptive approaches in personality assessment.
Additionally, cross-cultural studies help identify culturally specific personality dimensions that may be overlooked in traditional Western-centric models.
The nature vs. nurture debate remains central to understanding trait development.
Twin studies suggest that genetics significantly influence traits such as extraversion and neuroticism.
Environmental factors, including upbringing and experiences, also shape personality.
Modern research explores the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental influences, offering a comprehensive view of trait formation.
The field of behavioural genetics continues to evolve, employing advanced genome-wide association studies to pinpoint specific genes linked to personality traits.
Trait theory informs practices in recruitment, team building, and leadership.
Employers use personality assessments to predict job performance and cultural fit.
Traits such as conscientiousness and agreeableness are linked to higher job satisfaction and productivity.
Leadership research shows that certain traits, including extraversion and openness, correlate with effective leadership styles.
Incorporating trait theory enhances employee development and organisational success.
Moreover, companies are increasingly utilising AI-driven personality assessments to refine talent management and reduce unconscious bias in hiring.
Understanding personality traits aids in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.
Traits such as neuroticism are associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression.
CBT and other therapies target maladaptive thought patterns linked to specific traits.
Tailoring interventions to an individual’s trait profile can improve therapeutic outcomes.
For instance, highly conscientious individuals may benefit from structured, goal-oriented therapeutic approaches.
Recognising the relationship between personality and resilience also helps in designing preventive mental health strategies.
While influential, trait theory has limitations. Critics argue it overlooks situational factors influencing behaviour.
Trait theories often emphasise stability, downplaying personality changes over time.
Despite these critiques, integrating situational and developmental perspectives enhances trait-based models.
Dynamic models, such as interactionist perspectives, offer a more comprehensive approach by considering the role of environmental triggers.
Combining trait theory with cognitive and behavioural frameworks offers a holistic understanding of personality.
For example, trait activation theory explores how environments trigger specific traits.
Interdisciplinary models broaden the applicability of trait theory in real-world contexts.
Additionally, integrating emotion-focused and situational analyses allows for a richer, multidimensional perspective on behaviour.
Technological innovations improve the precision of trait measurement. Online platforms enable widespread access to personality assessments.
AI-driven tools analyse behavioural data to refine trait predictions.
Virtual reality simulations provide dynamic contexts for trait-based evaluations.
These advancements enhance both research and practical applications.
Furthermore, neuroimaging technologies offer novel insights into how brain structures correlate with specific personality traits.
Emerging research examines the genetic basis of personality with greater specificity.
Epigenetics explores how experiences influence gene expression related to traits.
Customised interventions based on genetic profiles represent a future direction.
Longitudinal studies aim to capture how traits evolve across the lifespan.
Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence in analysing personality data is likely to revolutionise trait theory applications in mental health and education.
Real-world examples demonstrate the impact of trait theory.
In education, conscientiousness predicts academic achievement and persistence.
Leadership case studies highlight the role of extraversion in inspiring teams.
Psychological profiling uses trait analysis to improve law enforcement outcomes.
Furthermore, sports psychology leverages personality insights to enhance performance, motivation, and team cohesion.
Trait theory continues to offer valuable insights into human personality and behaviour.
By integrating new technologies and research, it remains a dynamic field with broad applications.
Understanding its principles enhances personal development, organisational strategies, and mental health interventions.
Exploring its evolving frameworks will lead to even deeper knowledge and innovative solutions in personality assessment and application.
This personality trait encourages persistence, cooperation and ambition.
This personality trait encourages persistence, cooperation and ambition.
Optimists in paid employment earn more than pessimists.
Around 80 percent of people are optimistic, which tends to encourage persistence, cooperation and ambition.
However, being an optimist may not be as good for those starting their own business.
For entrepreneurs, pessimism is a more beneficial personality trait, the research also finds.
Pessimistic business owners earn 30 percent more than optimists.
Entrepreneurs typically earn less, work longer hours and take on more risk than those in paid employment.
Optimists, though, are more likely to face these issues without realising the dangers.
Dr Chris Dawson, the study’s first author, said:
“Our results suggest that too many people are starting business ventures, at least as far as personal returns are concerned.
As a society we celebrate optimism and entrepreneurial thinking but when the two combine it pays to take a reality check.
Every episode of the BBC’s Dragon’s Den provides examples of such wishful thinking.
Pessimism may not generally be seen as a desirable trait but it does protect people from taking on poor entrepreneurial projects.”
The conclusions come from data covering 18 years taken from a major longitudinal survey.
Professor David de Meza, study co-author, said:
“Governments frequently talk about the role of entrepreneurs in creating economic growth, but there is a downside.
The personal and societal fall-out of failed businesses shouldn’t be underestimated, which is exactly what optimists do.
Policy makers should not encourage the wrong sort of start-up.”
The study was published in the journal European Economic Review (Dawson et al., 2018).
Discover the key traits of Type A personality, how it influences behaviour, and strategies to balance ambition with well-being.
Type A personality refers to a set of behaviours and traits characterised by ambition, competitiveness, and a strong sense of urgency.
The concept of Type A personality was first introduced in the 1950s by cardiologists Meyer Friedman and Ray Rosenman.
They identified a behavioural pattern linked to heart disease, which they termed Type A.
This personality type is marked by a highly driven, goal-oriented approach to life.
However, not all individuals with Type A traits exhibit the same intensity.
Type A behaviours exist on a spectrum.
Some may show mild competitiveness, while others display extreme impatience and aggression.
Recognising where one falls on this spectrum helps tailor strategies for managing stress and maintaining balance.
People with moderate Type A traits can harness their motivation without succumbing to burnout, making self-awareness a vital first step in personal development.
Type A individuals often thrive in competitive environments.
Their drive for achievement can lead to impressive productivity and leadership.
However, the same traits can create challenges.
Common workplace behaviours of Type A individuals include:
While these traits can contribute to success, they may also lead to burnout.
Learning to set realistic goals and prioritise tasks is essential for sustainable performance.
Workplace stress management techniques, such as time-blocking and mindful delegation, are crucial tools for Type A personalities aiming for longevity in their careers.
By practising gratitude and celebrating incremental progress, individuals can sustain their motivation while maintaining a healthier mindset.
Many misconceptions surround the concept of Type A personality.
Some believe that all Type A individuals are hostile or aggressive.
In reality, Type A traits vary widely.
Key myths include:
By addressing these myths, we gain a more nuanced understanding of Type A tendencies.
The idea that Type A behaviour automatically leads to health issues is also outdated, as the interplay between personality and well-being is more complex.
Focusing on proactive health habits, including regular exercise and mindfulness, allows Type A individuals to maintain their energy levels without compromising their health.
The understanding of Type A personality has evolved significantly since its inception.
Early research focused on its link to heart disease.
Modern studies take a broader view, examining its role in motivation, leadership, and health.
The rigid classification of Type A versus Type B is now considered overly simplistic.
Today, personality is seen as fluid, with people exhibiting different traits depending on context.
This shift highlights the importance of adaptability in managing Type A tendencies.
Personal growth often involves blending the assertiveness of Type A behaviour with the patience typically associated with Type B.
This integrated approach leads to more holistic personal development and improved relational dynamics.
Cultural norms influence how Type A traits are perceived.
In highly individualistic societies, ambition and assertiveness are often celebrated.
In collectivist cultures, these behaviours may be viewed as disruptive.
For example:
Understanding cultural context can help tailor communication and behaviour for better interpersonal relationships.
Even within a single culture, generational shifts can influence how Type A behaviours are regarded.
Younger generations may prioritise work-life balance over relentless ambition, reshaping the traditional view of success.
Type A individuals are quick to adopt new technologies that enhance efficiency.
Their desire for productivity drives them to explore innovative tools.
However, this eagerness can also lead to challenges.
Constant connectivity increases the risk of burnout and information overload.
To mitigate these risks:
Balancing technological engagement with well-being is crucial.
Additionally, leveraging technology for relaxation, such as guided meditation apps, can create a more balanced digital lifestyle.
This conscious approach helps Type A personalities maintain high performance without sacrificing mental health.
Type A parents often bring their driven nature into child-rearing.
They may have high expectations for their children and focus on achievement.
While this can foster motivation, it may also create pressure.
Characteristics of Type A parenting include:
To balance these tendencies:
Creating a supportive environment helps children thrive without undue stress.
Type A parents who model self-care and stress management teach valuable life skills by example.
This balanced approach nurtures resilience and adaptability in their children.
Students with Type A traits are often highly motivated.
They excel in structured learning environments but may struggle with perfectionism.
Effective teaching strategies include:
Teachers can also model stress management techniques to help students develop resilience.
Incorporating relaxation exercises and reflective practices into the curriculum fosters a growth mindset.
This holistic approach equips Type A students with the tools needed for academic and emotional success.
The drive and ambition characteristic of Type A individuals make them well-suited for entrepreneurship.
Traits that contribute to entrepreneurial success include:
However, managing stress and maintaining work-life balance are critical.
Successful entrepreneurs often delegate tasks and build supportive networks.
Seeking mentorship and investing in personal development can further enhance entrepreneurial growth.
By focusing on innovation and adaptability, Type A entrepreneurs remain competitive in dynamic markets.
Type A traits can enhance leadership potential.
Assertiveness and decisiveness are valuable in guiding teams and making strategic decisions.
Effective leaders balance their natural drive with empathy and collaboration.
Key strategies for Type A leaders include:
By embracing flexibility, Type A leaders can inspire innovation and long-term success.
Leadership training that incorporates emotional intelligence can further refine Type A leadership styles.
This integration creates dynamic leaders capable of motivating teams and navigating complex challenges.
Type A personality is a dynamic and multifaceted concept.
Understanding its traits, challenges, and opportunities provides valuable insights for personal and professional growth.
By adopting balanced strategies, Type A individuals can harness their strengths while mitigating potential downsides, leading to greater fulfilment and well-being.
With conscious effort, the traits that define Type A personality become powerful tools for lifelong success.
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