Cenek Report

Current and past students of psychology are keenly aware of the school of thought that personality is heavily determined through genetic makeup.

They are also aware of a competing school of thought – one that argues that personality is determined by both genetic and environmental factors. Most of the research on personality movement is based on changes in the Big Five dimensions (or components) of personality, which include neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness to experience. Incidentally, most industrial and organizational psychologists use personality assessments based on the Big Five because they tend to be the most accurate.

Several years ago, the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology published research findings that further confirmed the argument that the Big Five can change over time –and most especially in middle adulthood. Conscientiousness and agreeableness increased throughout early and middle adulthood, while neuroticism declined among women. These findings most probably suggest that movement is due to the maturation process that continues well into middle age.

Human resources professionals should be leery of snake oil salespersons who claim that their latest program can change fundamental personality characteristics. Yes, they may change; but not due to small doses of education, skill building or role redefinition.