Question

Explain the Big Five Factor Model (OCEAN) or Cattell’s Trait Theory.

Hint:

Big Five = OCEAN traits Cattell = 16 personality factors

Answer 1

Concept: Trait theories of personality focus on identifying stable characteristics that influence behavior. Two major approaches are the Big Five Factor Model and Cattell’s Trait Theory.
1. Big Five Factor Model (OCEAN)
The Big Five model describes personality using five broad traits, remembered by the acronym OCEAN. O – Openness to Experience:

Creativity and curiosity
Interest in new ideas and experiences
C – Conscientiousness:

Discipline and organization
Responsibility and goal orientation
E – Extraversion:

Sociability and talkativeness
Energy and assertiveness
A – Agreeableness:

Kindness and cooperation
Trust and empathy
N – Neuroticism:

Emotional instability
Anxiety and mood swings

2. Cattell’s Trait Theory Raymond Cattell proposed that personality consists of measurable traits identified through factor analysis. Key Features:

Identified 16 primary personality traits
Developed the 16 Personality Factor (16PF) test
Types of Traits:

Surface traits – Observable behaviors
Source traits – Underlying basic traits
Difference:

Big Five → Broad personality dimensions
Cattell → Detailed trait analysis (16 traits)