Research Feed

This narrative review of 31 studies finds that chronic stress is consistently associated with higher neuroticism and lower levels of the remaining four Big Five traits. The neuroticism link is the strongest and most well-replicated; evidence for reduced conscientiousness is moderate; associations with extraversion, agreeableness, and openness are meaningful but largely cross-sectional. The relationship is likely bidirectional, and social support, coping strategies, and socioeconomic status all moderate these effects.

The Big Five personality factors serve as powerful heuristics for predicting outcomes across multiple life domains. At the individual level, traits are linked to health, happiness, and identity. Interpersonally, they shape the quality of family and romantic relationships. Finally, at the institutional level, personality influences occupational success, political ideology, and community involvement. These findings underscore that personality dispositions are not just internal states but active drivers of significant life consequences.