Neuroticism
Definition
Neuroticism is a personality trait involving long-term tendency to be in a negative emotional state. Individuals with high levels of neuroticism tend to have mood swings, anxiety, irritability or sadness.
Analogy
Imagine neuroticism as an alarm system that's set too sensitive - it goes off frequently and sometimes without any significant reason just like individuals with high neuroticism react intensely to stressors that others might not find stressful.
Related terms
Emotional Stability: The opposite end of the spectrum from neuroticism in the Big Five Personality Traits model; characterized by consistency in moods and emotions.
Anxiety Disorders: Mental health disorders characterized by feelings of worry or fear strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities; often linked with high levels of neuroticism.
Mood Disorders: These are psychological disorders characterized by emotional extremes which could be influenced by high levels of neuroticism.
"Neuroticism" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (6)
In the big five personality traits, Neuroticism deals with ______.
Whose trait theory suggests that personality is largely influenced by genetics and can be described using three broad traits: extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism?
In terms of Costa and McCrae's Five Factor Model, what does "neuroticism" measure?
Which psychologist is known for formulating the trait theory that includes extraversion and neuroticism?
What unique approach could be used to study how neuroticism might influence people's decision-making process under pressure?
Which trait theory would most effectively guide the psychological intervention plan for a patient exhibiting high levels of neuroticism?
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.