McCrae & Costa - Big Five

• In the 1980's, McCrae and Costa identified 5 fundamental personality traits:

  • Openness
  • Conscientiousness
  • Extraversion
  • Agreeableness
  • Neuroticism
• Openness: A degree of intellectual curiosity, seeing multiple perspectives, being creative.

  Examples for LOW level openness: Dislikes change, doesn't enjoy trying new things, struggles to accept new ideas.

  Examples for HIGH level openness: Focused on tackling new challenges and experiences.
• Conscientiousness: Tendency to pre-plan, stay disciplined, awareness of yourself and other people.

  Examples of LOW level conscientiousness: Procrastinates or fails to complete important tasks. Doesn't take care of things and fails to return items.

  Examples of HIGH level conscientiousness: Spends time preparing and working by a set schedule.
• Extraversion: Comfortable in social settings, has high energy.

  Examples of LOW level Extraversion: Prefers being alone, finds it difficult to start conversations and make small talk.

  Examples of HIGH level Extraversion: Enjoys being the centre of attention and feels energised around people.
• Agreeableness: Cooperating and communicating effectively, tendency to be compassionate.

  Examples of LOW level Agreeableness: Takes little interest in others and doesn't care how they feel. Manipulates others to get what they want.

  Examples of HIGH level Agreeableness: Has a great deal of interest in other people and their wellbeing.
• Neuroticism: Unstable emotions and easily upset.

  Examples of LOW level neuroticism: Deals well with stressful situations, usually relaxed, rarely feels sad or depressed as they are quite emotionally stable.

  Examples of HIGH level neuroticism: Experiences a lot of stress as they are constantly worried about many things.