9.3 Definitions of the Big Five Traits Extroversion


Extroversion is one of the two fundamental traits identified by Jung. It is an aspect of the temperament, and has been shown to be hereditary. Individuals who score high on extroversion scales are usually talkative, sociable and outgoing. Extroverted students prefer to study in groups, and in places where they can be surrounded by other people. They also have a shorter concentration span than introverts. Given their sociable personalities, it is not surprising that they also tend to be leaders. Extroverts enjoy excitement and novelty and are adventurous risk takers. They are likely to take up extreme sports like car racing and bungee jumping and tend not to worry about life too much. However, they are more susceptible to outside influences; that is to say, they are more suggestible. Extroverts are easy to find in cultures where strangers talk to each other in public places and people sing at parties; where hospitality is open and people show their feelings easily.


Introversion


Introversion is one of the two fundamental traits identified by Jung and is also known as neuroticism. It is an aspect of the temperament, and has been shown to be hereditary. Introverts tend to be quiet and cautious. They prefer silence to music and tend to laugh less than extroverts. Introverts are more inclined to work in professions that do not require high levels of social interaction. They talk about their feelings very little and, on a daily basis, experience fewer positive emotions than extroverts. As regards studying, introverts have a longer concentration span than extroverts and like to study alone. They work more slowly than extroverts, but pay more attention to detail and generally perform better academically. Not surprisingly, students who withdraw from their studies for psychological reasons tend to be introverts. Demonstrations of emotion are discouraged in certain cultures, where strangers do not greet each other in the street and where it is very unusual for a visitor to be invited to someone’s home.


Agreeableness


This is the trait that defines how important it is for an individual to get on well with others. People who score high on agreeableness are easy- going and friendly. They prefer to cooperate with others and try to avoid conflict. So when there is a disagreement, they will look for ways to negotiate an amicable solution. If they feel upset, they’re not likely to show it because they enjoy a harmonious atmosphere. They tend to be good-tempered, that is they don’t have bad moods, and are usually cheerful. Agreeable people are generally trusting and tend to think the best of others. They also have an optimistic outlook on life. Typical statements for agreeable people are: I’m interested in others; I like other people to feel relaxed; I understand other people’s feelings. Although agreeable people and extroverts are both sociable, agreeable people are more focused on the comfort and happiness of others than extroverts are. Agreeableness is a highly valued social quality in some cultures, where disagreeing openly with other people is thought to be bad manners and is strongly discouraged.


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