Personality and health in Japanese older adults

Abstract

Objective: Change versus stability of personality in late adulthood is an intriguing yet understudied issue. This cross-sectional study examined age and gender differences in Cloninger's biosocial model of personality, as well as their relation to health in a Japanese community sample whose age exceeds 50 years.

Method: Participants (N = 330) completed the Temperament and Character Inventory and the General Health Questionnaire. MANOVA and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted.

Results: Age-related decreases in Reward Dependence, Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness, and an increase in Self-Transcendence were found. Health was significantly predicted by Harm Avoidance and Self-Directedness.

Conclusion: Personality change in late adulthood tends to occur in environmentally-based character, in a pattern of gradual social detachment and internal spiritual growth. Personality is a stronger predictor of health than demographic variables.

Keywords:

• personality
• health
• TCI
• GHQ