Discuss five-factor model of personality.

Paul Costa and Robert MacCrae have done extensive research on all the possible personality traits. They found that all the findings indicate a set of five-factors. They are often called 'Big Five'. These factors are described below:

1. Openness to Experience: Those who store high on this factor are imaginative, curious, open to new ideas and interested in cultural pursuits. In contrast, low scoring persons are rigid.

2. Extroversion: It characterizes people who are socially active, assertive, outgoing, talkative, and fun a loving. It is the opposite of shy, timid and socially withdrawn.

3. Agreeableness: This factor represents the traits of people who are helpful, cooperative, friendly, caring and nurturing. It is the opposite of hostile and being self-centered.

4. Neuroticism: People scouring high on this factor are emotionally unstable, anxious, worried, fearful, distressed, irritable and hypertensive. Its opposite is well adjusted.

5. Conscientiousness: Those who display a high degree of this factor are achievement-oriented, dependable, responsible, prudent, hardworking, self-con trolled. Its opposite is impulsivity.