Temperament and socio‐communicative orientation

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship of scores on temperament dimensions for both three‐ (Eysenck, 1985) and five‐factor (McCrae & John, 1992) models with scores on two dimensions of socio‐commu‐nicative orientation (Richmond & McCroskey, 1990). The Eysenck Personality Inventory and the Five‐Factor Model measure have previously been validated as measuring genetically‐based dimensions of temperament. Substantial variance in scores of both assertiveness and responsiveness were predictable by each of the temperamental models. These results suggest that socio‐communicative orientation (self‐perceptions) is likely genetically based. There is a need for additional research employing twin designs, and ultimately direct genetic testing, to confirm these results.