What is Neuroticism? (Five Factor Model of Personality)

Neuroticism, as defined within the Big Five personality model, represents one of five key dimensions used to describe human personality traits. It encompasses tendencies toward emotional instability and negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. This trait contrasts with other dimensions like openness or conscientiousness but is integral for understanding individual differences in behavior.

Neuroticism is a personality trait marked by emotional dysregulation or high reactivity, leading to stronger negative responses to frustration or loss. Individuals with high neuroticism often experience emotions like anger, depression, anxiety, worry, and fear more intensely. They typically have lower self-esteem and face increased risks of physical health issues, mental health challenges, dissatisfaction in life relationships such as marriages and work performance difficulties.

Low neuroticism is associated with emotional stability, fewer negative feelings, and not being easily upset. However, it does not correlate directly to positive emotions; those are more linked to extraversion. Neuroticism generally decreases with age but remains relatively stable overall as a personality trait. While changing the core trait of neuroticism may be challenging, modifying behaviors related to it can lead to improvements in managing stress.

High neuroticism is often associated with challenges like heightened stress responses and vulnerability to substance use disorders. However, individuals can improve coping skills and adopt balanced reactions to stressors. When paired with high conscientiousness, this trait allows channeling anxiety into productive activities. Studies also reveal that people scoring high in neuroticism tend to evaluate situations more critically.

Individuals with high neuroticism evaluate evidence more critically and accurately, often perceiving situations realistically. While this trait can lead to overly negative interpretations, it generally provides an advantage in realistic assessments. Conversely, those low in neuroticism may view things too positively or unrealistically.