Christie Napa Scollon, Texas Christian University & Ed Diener, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign and The Gallup OrganizationWashington, District of Columbia
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
2006, Vol. 91, No. 6, 1152–1165
Abstract
The present study examined individual differences in change in extraversion, neuroticism, and work and
relationship satisfaction. Of particular interest were the correlations between changes. Data were from the
Victorian Quality of Life Panel Study (B. Headey & A. Wearing, 1989, 1992), in which an overall 1,130
individuals participated (ages 16 to 70). Respondents were assessed every 2 years from 1981 to 1989.
Four major findings emerged. (a) There were significant individual differences in changes in extraversion
and neuroticism. (b) Change was not limited to young adulthood. (c) Development was systematic in that
increased work and relationship satisfaction was associated with decreases in neuroticism and increases
in extraversion over time; on average, the magnitude of the relation between changes in work and
relationship satisfaction and traits was .40. (d) Cross-lagged models indicated traits had a greater
influence on role satisfaction; however, marginal support emerged for work satisfaction leading to
increased extraversion. Implications of correlated change are discussed.
