neuroticizmus

Neuroticism, sometimes referred to as neuroticizmus in some languages, is a core dimension of personality in the Five-Factor Model. It reflects the tendency to experience negative emotions—such as anxiety, sadness, anger, and guilt—and to perceive situations as threatening. Individuals high in neuroticism typically exhibit emotional instability, rapid mood changes, and heightened stress reactivity, whereas those low in neuroticism tend to be calmer, more emotionally resilient, and less prone to distress.

Measurement of neuroticism uses self-report inventories that place the trait on a continuum. Common tools include the NEO-PI-R, NEO-FFI, the Big Five Inventory, and shortened scales like IPIP-NEO. These instruments assess the frequency and intensity of negative emotional experiences and related behavioral patterns.

Associations and implications: high neuroticism is linked to an increased risk of mood and anxiety disorders, greater stress sensitivity, and more somatic complaints. It can influence coping strategies and health outcomes, but it is not a clinical diagnosis. Many people with high neuroticism function well in daily life, and the trait can contribute to vigilance and careful planning in some contexts. Low neuroticism is associated with broader emotional stability and resilience.

Development and stability: neuroticism shows substantial heritability, with estimates around 40–60% in twin studies. It remains relatively stable across adulthood but can decline slightly with age. Life experiences and interventions that improve emotion regulation can modulate its expression.

Cross-cultural and methodological notes: neuroticism appears as a robust trait across cultures, though mean levels and expressions vary. Assessments must consider linguistic and cultural equivalence, and sex differences are typically modest, with women sometimes scoring slightly higher on average.