38th Annual Student Research Conference
Trait Dimensions Versus Childhood Experiences: Which Better Predict Well-being Among Adults?
Caladan D. Parker* and Syd M. Kelley
Dr. Jeffrey R. Vittengl, Faculty Mentor
Background: Psychoanalytic theories suggest childhood experiences are key in understanding adult well-being versus illness, whereas trait theories suggest adult personality dimensions are central. The purpose of this study was to compare childhood experiences and traits as well-being predictors.
Method: Midlife adults in the U.S. (N = 3672, mean 47 years old, 55% female) completed trait (neuroticism, extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, openness) and childhood experiences (affection, discipline, physical abuse, emotional abuse from mother and father) measures at baseline, then measures relevant to well-being (life satisfaction, positive affect, negative affect, depressive symptoms, physical disability, chronic illness) at a nine-year follow-up.
Results: Traits (mean R2 = .11 ) were significantly stronger predictors of well-being than childhood experiences (.03), overall. Similarly, the incremental predictive power (mean ΔR2) of traits over childhood experiences (.09) was greater than vice versa (.02).
Conclusions: Assessment of traits is more important than childhood experiences in predicting midlife adults’ well-being.
Keywords: Trait theories, Childhood experiences, Adult well-being, Midlife adults, Life satisfaction, Psychoanalytic theories, Predictors, Big five personality
Topic(s):Psychology
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 104-2
Location: SUB Georgian A
Time: 9:00