Evaluating Consistency And Change In Personality Over Time

University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
PSY 150 | Introduction to Psychology
Academic year:

2023
Views:

159

Pages:

1
Author:

JJIssac

EVALUATING CONSISTENCY AND CHANGE IN PERSONALITY OVER TIME Researchers examine personality stability and change across the lifespan in several ways: Studying Average Levels Longitudinal studies following the same individuals over time provide insights into average developmental trends in personality attributes: , Extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness tend to increase over time on average. , Neuroticism declines on average as people mature. , Average levels of openness also decrease, especially in mid to late life. , Young adulthood sees the most change as people take on new social roles. , This pattern of positive change is called the maturity principle. , Individuals vary around general patterns - some defy trends. Examining Relative Consistency Differential stability evaluates the consistency of individuals' relative ranking on personality attributes over time. , Assessed via test-retest correlations in longitudinal studies. , Stability correlations increase steadily from childhood to adulthood. , This cumulative continuity principle reflects increasing consistency. , Correlations remain imperfect, allowing change across the lifespan. , More variability and change is seen earlier in life. Implications Personality exhibits both consistency and change across life. , General patterns appear but individual variations are important. , Stability has implications for predicting behavior and life outcomes. , Development likely arises from maturation and environmental influences. In summary, personality research reveals intricate patterns of stability and change across life. Continued study of both general principles and individual trajectories can provide deeper insights.