While humans are incredibly nuanced, we undoubtedly share many similarities. The big 5 personality traits are theorized to largely explain human behavior. These traits include extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, and neuroticism. Knowing these traits can help you deepen your self-awareness and may be beneficial for understanding your relationships, career choices, and individual values.
Extraversion
Extraversion refers to how much an individual gains energy from spending time with others. People with higher levels of extraversion, or extroverts, tend to prefer being in social groups, and they’re generally more outgoing. Those with high levels of introversion, on the other hand, tend to be more inward-focused. They value alone time, although they also value deep connections with others.1
The table below shows the broad range of extraversion characteristics:
| Those high in extraversion may be: | Those low in extraversion may be: |
| Loud and talkative | Quiet and observant |
| Thrive in social situations | Prefer small group or 1:1 environments |
| Like meeting new people | Enjoy spending time with close family/friends |
| Value working in a group | Value working alone |
Openness
Openness refers to the willingness to think creatively, try new things, or cultivate insight. Someone high on this scale tends to be curious and reflective. They value self-exploration and may be inherently more intellectual. Someone lower on this scale may be more rigid in their thinking. They might find it hard to think abstractly or integrate new feedback.
The table below shows the broad range of openness characteristics:
| Those high in openness may: | Those low in openness may: |
| Enjoy learning new things | Dislike change |
| Have an active imagination | Be more analytical and logical |
| Enjoy stimulating challenges | Prefer routine |
| Consistently seek new ways to better themselves | Try to accept things the way they are |
Agreeableness
Agreeableness refers to how much someone cooperates, engages, and connects with others. Highly agreeable people tend to be more affectionate and compassionate. They may work in helping professions or are known for being “great friends.” Someone lower in agreeableness may sometimes come across as stubborn, selfish, or inconsiderate.2 They might also find it hard to form meaningful relationships with others.
The table below shows the broad range of agreeableness characteristics:
| Those high in agreeableness may be: | Those low in agreeableness may be: |
| Helpful | More focused on their own needs |
| Empathetic | Less interested in others |
| Generous | Self-preserving |
| Anxious to please others | Less concerned about pleasing others |
Conscientiousness
Conscientiousness refers to someone’s desire to be cautious, diligent, and rule-abiding. Someone with a high degree of conscientiousness tends to be ambitious and dependable. They may also exhibit a more assertive discipline when avoiding or limiting maladaptive habits. Someone lower in conscientiousness may struggle with feeling more directionless or disorganized. They may also find it harder to follow through with their goals.
The table below shows the broad range of conscientiousness characteristics:
| Those high in conscientiousness may be: | Those low in conscientiousness may be: |
| Detail-oriented | Easily distracted |
| Goal-driven | Unmotivated |
| Well-organized | Disorganized |
| Perfectionistic/rigid | More tolerant of ambiguity/flaws |
Neuroticism
Neuroticism refers to an affinity toward cynicism, insecurity, and anxiety. People with higher levels of neuroticism tend to react more poorly to stress. They are more prone to anger and hopelessness, and they have higher rates of mental health issues.3 Emotional stability is the counterpart to neuroticism, and people with this trait tend to be more even-keeled, accepting, and go with the flow.
The table below shows the broad range of neuroticism characteristics:
| Those high in neuroticism may be: | Those low in neuroticism may be: |
| Insecure with themselves | Secure with themselves and others |
| Easily stressed | Accepting of stress |
| Moody | Calm |
| Excessively anxious/worried | Appropriately anxious/worried |
| Prone to more maladaptive coping skills | Prone to more adaptive coping skills |
History of the Big Five Personality Traits
Theories about personalities–and why they develop–have roots in ancient ideology and philosophy. Klages (1926), Baumgarten (1933), and Allport and Odbert (1936) have been coined with creating scientific taxonomy for better-defining personality.4 The Big 5 traits emerged from a combination of earlier theories, particularly by D.W. Fiske (1949), and modern research on various traits.
How Consistent Are the Big Five?
The five-factor model (FFM) has been replicated through numerous societies, which suggests that such traits may have some universal features. However, there isn’t enough research to support that it’s inherently consistent. In addition, most studies have focused on Western, educated, and wealthier communities.5 Likewise, as the Big Five is a newer theory, there isn’t substantial longitudinal data supporting its efficacy over time.
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How Stable Are Personality Traits?
While there isn’t extensive research on personalities over the lifespan, some studies show that such traits tend to be stable over time.6 In other words, if you were introverted as a child, you will likely remain introverted in adulthood. Traits may also intensify based on stress or unique life circumstances. However, it’s certainly possible to improve unwanted behaviors, which can lead to personality changes.
What Factors Influence Personality Traits?
No one factor determines personality alone. Instead, personality is probably a combination of social, physical, biological, and psychological factors. We are likely born with a predisposition toward certain personality traits, which are shaped by our earlier life experiences. Trauma, in particular, can be a significant factor in shaping how we perceive and react to the world around us.
How to Determine Your Personality Traits
Many different assessments measure personality traits. For example, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator categorizes people into one of 16 different personality types that are primarily derived from the Big 5 model. Other popular tests include the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire, HEXACO Personality Inventory, Enneagram, Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, and the DISC personality test. You may also be able to rely on your own subjective recall or ask trusted loved ones to determine various personality traits.
Limitations of the Five-Factor Personality Theory
The Big Five personality traits are rooted in theory, not fact. While they offer an explanation for human behavior, they shouldn’t be considered a universal truth. Nuances always exist, and we’re still learning much about how people operate. One clear disadvantage is that large categories like these might oversimplify essential subtleties. Breaking down personalities into five main traits may also contribute to people quickly stereotyping themselves and others.
Managing Your Personality Extremes
If you struggle with extremes in your personality traits, that doesn’t mean you’re perpetually doomed. It’s possible to improve how you react to certain situations and strengthen more preferred traits. The process of change often takes time, effort, and self-compassion. It’s normal to experience some setbacks along the way.
Many people find it helpful to consult with a therapist to work on personality issues. Some personality traits can be caused or aggravated by various mental illnesses. Unpacking these root causes and learning new ways to cope with stress will help you feel better. This, in turn, can improve how you present yourself in the world.
In My Experience
In my experience, many people seeking therapy want to improve unwanted personality traits. They need guidance in changing their perspective or ability to cope. At the same time, there’s also a need for self-acceptance. We are who we are, and there sometimes needs to be grace for honoring your unique identity. With all of that having been said, if you feel like part of your personality is holding you back, it’s worth seeking support.
Big Five Personality Traits Infographics
