13. McCrae and Costa (Five Factor Theory)

Question 1

Factor Analysis

Answer 1

Procedure that assumes human traits can be measured using correlational studies

Question 2

Five Factor Traits

Answer 2

(i) Extraversion

(ii) Agreeableness

(iii) Conscientiousness

(iv) Neuroticism

(v) Openness to Experience

Question 3

Components of Five Factor Theory (two core / three peripheral)

Answer 3

Core: (i) Basic Tendencies and (ii) Characteristic Adaptations

Peripheral: (i) biological bases, (ii) objective biography and (iii) external influences

Question 4

Basic Tendencies

Answer 4

Raw material of tendencies/dispositions that define individual’s potential and direction –> may be inherited, shaped by early experience, modified by disease or psych intervention

Question 5

Characteristic Adaptations

Answer 5

Acquired personality structures that develop as people interact with environment –> flexible and can be externally influenced

Question 6

Self-Concept

Answer 6

Most critical characteristic adaptation

Consists of knowledge, views and evaluations of self –> influences one’s behaviour

Question 7

Biological Bases

Answer 7

Source of Basic Tendencies

Question 8

Objective Biography

Answer 8

everything a person does, thinks or feels across lifespan

Question 9

External Influences

Answer 9

physical or social situations that have influence on a personality system

Question 10

Postulates for Basic Tendencies (4)

Answer 10

(i) Each person has unique set of traits they exhibit in unique pattern

(ii) All basic tendencies result from biological factors

(iii) Traits develop in childhood, slow in adolescence, stop in adulthood

(iv) Traits organized hierarchically from specific to general

Question 11

Postulates for Characteristic Adaptations

Answer 11

(i) Traits affect how we adapt to and seek out environments

(ii) Responses can become so rigid/compulsive that they become maladaptive

(iii) Traits are plastic/flexible