Traits of Strength Assignment
Instructions
Understanding the relationship between Big Five personality traits and psychological well-being can help individuals identify their strengths and weaknesses, develop effective coping strategies, and improve their overall quality of life.
Access the Open Psychometrics Five Factor Personality Test:
Big Five Personality Test
Select the “Begin assessment” button to continue. Take the test by answering the questions as honestly as possible. Upon completion, find your comprehensive personality report on the five personality traits and reflect upon the positive aspects of your relationship with each trait. Choose the most positive information in the report and reflect upon how that trait is a personal strength that you possess.
Your essay should be two pages, double-spaced with 12-point Times New Roman font. To begin your essay, state and highlight or indicate in italics or bold your most positive trait. It is not necessary to define the trait or reiterate the description of it from your results.
Now, describe your reaction in the following ways: How does this trait represent who you are as a person? Were you surprised by the results? How does this trait act as a personal strength, and in what ways do you find having it important and helpful to your quality of life? Aside from the test results, what other character strength(s) do you feel you have, and how are they important or helpful to your psychological well-being? Some examples include leadership, gratitude, spirituality, bravery, honesty, justice, perseverance, appreciation of beauty, wisdom, etc. You will want to address the answers to these questions clearly and completely.
Next, explain how you can apply this personality trait/strength or your other strengths to the important areas of your life such as work, school, relationships, play, and/or parenting. For example, are you high in Openness, and thus eager to try new things and meet new people? Does your conscientiousness help you excel in school and/or work? You may even wish to use your strengths in a way that you have not done before and report on that. Again, please provide a thorough discussion.
Results from Big Five Personality Test

Factor I was labelled as Extroversion by the developers of the IPIP-BFFM. Factor I is sometimes given other names, such as Surgency or Positive Emotionality.
Extraversion is typically characterized by an individual’s tendency to seek out social interaction and stimulation, as well as their level of enthusiasm and assertiveness in social situations. Individuals who score high on this dimension tend to be outgoing, sociable, and talkative. They enjoy being around others and seek out social situations. They are often described as having a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and assertiveness. They may also be more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as partying, drinking, or other forms of excitement-seeking.
In contrast, individuals who score low on extraversion are more introverted and reserved. They may prefer to spend time alone or in small groups, and may feel uncomfortable in large social gatherings. They may also be less assertive and more cautious in their interactions with others.
Research has shown that extraversion is linked to a range of outcomes, including job performance, social support, and well-being. For example, individuals who score high on extraversion tend to be more successful in careers that involve social interaction and communication. They may also have more social support networks and experience higher levels of subjective well-being.
Factor II was labeled as Emotional Stability by the developers of the IPIP-BFFM. Factor II is often referred to by its low end, Neuroticism.
Individuals who score high on emotional stability are characterized as being emotionally resilient, calm, and even-tempered. They tend to experience fewer negative emotions and are better able to cope with stress and adversity. They are also more likely to exhibit positive emotions, such as happiness, contentment, and enthusiasm.
In contrast, individuals who score low on emotional stability tend to be more prone to negative emotions, such as anxiety, depression, and anger. They may be more reactive to stress and may find it difficult to cope with challenging situations. They may also exhibit a range of maladaptive behaviors, such as substance abuse or self-harm.
Research has shown that emotional stability is linked to a range of outcomes, including mental health, physical health, and interpersonal relationships. For example, individuals who score high on emotional stability tend to have better mental health outcomes, such as lower rates of depression and anxiety. They may also have better physical health outcomes, such as lower rates of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, they tend to have more stable and supportive relationships with others.
Factor III is labeled as Agreeableness.
Individuals who score high on agreeableness are characterized as being warm, kind, and considerate. They tend to be cooperative and are motivated to maintain harmonious social relationships. They may also have a strong sense of empathy and concern for the welfare of others.
In contrast, individuals who score low on agreeableness tend to be more competitive and skeptical. They may be less motivated to maintain social harmony and may be more likely to express their opinions forcefully, even if they may conflict with others.
Research has shown that agreeableness is linked to a range of outcomes, including interpersonal relationships, job performance, and mental health. For example, individuals who score high on agreeableness tend to have more positive and supportive relationships with others. They may also be more successful in careers that require teamwork and collaboration. Additionally, they tend to have better mental health outcomes, such as lower rates of depression and anxiety. However, it is important to note that excessively high levels of agreeableness can also have negative consequences, such as being overly compliant or lacking assertiveness.
Factor IV is labeled as Conscientiousness.
Individuals who score high on conscientiousness are characterized as being reliable, hardworking, and efficient. They tend to be well-organized and responsible, and are motivated to achieve their goals. They may also exhibit a strong sense of self-discipline and perseverance.
In contrast, individuals who score low on conscientiousness tend to be more impulsive and disorganized. They may have difficulty setting and achieving goals, and may be more likely to engage in behaviors that are not in their best interest.
Research has shown that conscientiousness is linked to a range of outcomes, including academic and job performance, health behaviors, and longevity. For example, individuals who score high on conscientiousness tend to have better academic and job performance, as well as lower rates of absenteeism and turnover. They may also be more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors, such as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet. Additionally, they tend to live longer than individuals who score low on conscientiousness.
However, it is important to note that excessively high levels of conscientiousness can also have negative consequences, such as being overly perfectionistic or rigid.
Factor V was labeled as Intellect/Imagination by the developers of the IPIP-BFFM but it is also most commonly known in the literature as Openness to Experience.
Individuals who score high on openness to experience are characterized as being imaginative, curious, and open to new ideas and experiences. They tend to be intellectually curious and enjoy exploring new concepts and ideas. They may also exhibit a preference for creativity and aesthetics.
In contrast, individuals who score low on openness to experience tend to be more traditional and conservative. They may have a preference for familiar and predictable experiences, and may be less likely to seek out novel experiences.
Research has shown that openness to experience is linked to a range of outcomes, including creativity, innovation, and cultural competence. For example, individuals who score high on openness to experience tend to be more creative and innovative, and may be more successful in careers that require these skills. Additionally, they tend to be more open-minded and accepting of diverse cultures and perspectives.
However, it is important to note that excessively high levels of openness to experience can also have negative consequences, such as being overly impulsive or having difficulty with routine tasks.
Rubric
Criteria |
No Submission |
Basic |
Novice |
Exemplary |
Criterion Score |
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Purpose/ Topic/ Theme |
0 points No submission |
5.5 points 1-5.5 points Fails to clearly state a purpose, theme, topic as required. |
7.5 points 7-7.5 points Purpose is somewhat unclear; topic or theme is not specific. |
10 points 9-10 points Clearly states the purpose and addresses the topic or theme of the post. |
Score of Purpose/ Topic/ Theme, / 10 |
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Criteria |
No Submission |
Basic |
Novice |
Exemplary |
Criterion Score |
|||||
Concepts |
0 points No Submission |
14.5 points 1-14.5 points There was little or no evidence the personality test was completed or that the assignment was completed as required. |
17.5 points 17.5-19.5 points Reaction to a positive trait and your strengths are vague or generalized or your reaction to the findings is unclear or incomplete in some manner. |
25 points 22.5-25 points Clearly identifies the most positive trait derived from the test and clearly describes your reaction and view of your strengths as indicated in the directions. |
Score of Concepts, / 25 |
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Application |
0 points No Submission |
14.5 points 1-14.5 points The paper exhibits a clear lack of application of your strengths to important areas of your life. |
17.5 points 17.5-19.5 points Describes somewhat how you can apply your strengths to the important areas of your life. |
25 points 22.5-25 points Clearly describes how you can apply your strengths to the important areas of your life such as work, school, relationships, etc. |
Score of Application, / 25 |
Criteria |
No Submission |
Basic |
Novice |
Exemplary |
Criterion Score |
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Conclusion |
0 points No Submission |
8.5 points 1-8.5 points Ends without a conclusion or one that is confusing, disorganized, and includes irrelevant ideas. |
12 points 10.5-12 points Ends by addressing inferences, interpretations, and implications but is somewhat unorganized, confusing, or disjointed. |
15 points 13.5-15 points Ends with a striking conclusion that includes inferences or interpretations; clearly addresses implications and consequences and culminates assertions. |
Score of Conclusion, / 15 |
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Mechanics of Writing |
0 points No Submission |
8.5 points 1-8.5 points Unreadable essay due to excessive writing errors. |
12 points 10.5-12 points The paper needs improvement with respect to grammar, citations, spelling, and/or style. |
15 points 13.5-15 points The paper is nearly perfect with respect to grammar, citations, spelling, and style. |
Score of Mechanics of Writing, / 15 |
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Criteria |
No Submission |
Basic |
Novice |
Exemplary |
Criterion Score |
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Length Requirements |
0 points No Submission |
5.5 points 1-5.5 points Exceeds or fails to meet word count requirement by 200-400+ words. |
7.5 points 7-7.5 points Exceeds or fails to meet word count requirement by 50-100 words. |
10 points 9-10 points Is within 25 words of the 500 word count requirement. |
Score of Length Requirements, / 10 |