Sources of variance in personality facets: a multiple-rater twin study of self-peer, peer-peer, and self-self (dis)agreement

J Pers. 2010 Oct;78(5):1565-94. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-6494.2010.00661.x. Epub 2010 Jul 20.

Abstract

This study considered the validity of the personality structure based on the Five-Factor Model using both self- and peer reports on twins' NEO-PI-R facets. Separating common from specific genetic variance in self- and peer reports, this study examined genetic substance of different trait levels and rater-specific perspectives relating to personality judgments. Data of 919 twin pairs were analyzed using a multiple-rater twin model to disentangle genetic and environmental effects on domain-level trait, facet-specific trait, and rater-specific variance. About two thirds of both the domain-level trait variance and the facet-specific trait variance was attributable to genetic factors. This suggests that the more personality is measured accurately, the better these measures reflect the genetic structure. Specific variance in self- and peer reports also showed modest to substantial genetic influence. This may indicate not only genetically influenced self-rater biases but also substance components specific for self- and peer raters' perspectives on traits actually measured.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Twin Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Individuality*
  • Internal-External Control
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personality / classification*
  • Personality / genetics*
  • Personality Assessment / statistics & numerical data
  • Psychometrics
  • Social Environment
  • Twin Studies as Topic
  • Twins / genetics*
  • Twins / psychology*
  • Young Adult