Effects of Extroversion and Neuroticism on Learning and Memory: A Test of Eysenck's Theory of Individual Differences in Arousal

Summary

Forty Ohio University female undergraduates were classified as stable extroverts, neurotic extroverts, stable introverts, and neurotic introverts, as measured by the Eysenck Personality Inventory. Subjects were asked to learn four paired-associate lists—two forms of both simple and difficult lists. The dependent variables were errors in the learning of the lists to criterion and recall scores at short-term (15 second) and long-term (15 minute) recall intervals. The hypothesized interactions were not significant. Explanations for the negative findings involved the methodology and the questionable applicability of Eysenck's biologically based personality dimensions for defining individual differences in learning and recall.