Traits and stories: Links between dispositional and narrative features of personality

摘要: Dispositional traits and life narratives represent two different levels of personality that have not previously been empirically linked. The current study tested five hypotheses connecting Big-Five to life-narrative indices emotional tone, theme, structure. Students (Study 1) adults 2) completed a self-report measure the provided extended written accounts either ten (students) or eight (adults) key scenes, including high points, low turning points. Content analysis narrative data revealed for both samples Neuroticism was positively associated with an emotionally negative Agreeableness correlated themes communion (e.g., friendship, caring others), Openness strongly structural complexity accounts. Contrary prediction, however, Conscientiousness consistently agency achievement, self-mastery) Extraversion unrelated positive tone. results are discussed in context contemporary research theorizing on lives relation more conventional, trait-based approaches.