Extroversion refers to an individual’s interest in and enthusiasm for things outside of themselves. Traits associated with extroversion involve being outgoing, gregarious, social, and talkative. The opposite of extroversion is introversion, which refers generally to being shy and reserved. Individuals high in extroversion gain energy from being with others. The concepts of extroversion and introversion appear in a number of personality theories. In some models (see Figure 1.1), they're conceptualized as opposite ends of a continuum, where being high in one necessitates being low in the other. In other models (see Figure 1.2), they're seen as two separate dimensions, where individuals can be high or low on either.

 

Agreeableness refers to the extent to which an individual is cooperative and friendly. Traits associated with agreeableness involve being polite, flexible, tolerant, kind, and cooperative. Individuals high on agreeableness are more likely to seek compromise and to be empathetic and trusting. They tend to view the world from a place of optimism, seeing and believing in the good in people.  

Conscientiousness is the extent to which individuals are reliable, prompt, hardworking, and ambitious. Individuals that have a high degree of conscientiousness tend to be more organized and thorough than those with lower degrees of conscientiousness. In some studies, conscientiousness may be referred to as dependability.

Neuroticism, sometimes referred to as emotionality, refers to feelings of anxiousness and nervousness. Individuals high on neuroticism tend to be worriers; they are often contrasted with those who are emotionally stable and even-tempered.  

Openness to experience refers to being imaginative and innovative, curious, and progressive.