ON TRAITS AND VALUES - WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OPENNESS TO EXPERIENCE

In three samples (total N = 583), the Rokeach Values Survey correlates of the five-factor model (NEO-PI, NEO-FFI, and NEO-PI-R) were examine d with a particular focus on the openness to experience dimension, reg arded as the least-understood of the ''Big Five'' factors. Using both individual values items and value composites (ratings and rankings), r eplicable correlates were identified. Among the 36 values, openness ha d nine replicable correlates, most notably the terminal value of world of beauty and the instrumental value imaginative. Openness also was r eliably related to the positive valuing of being broadminded as well a s negative valuing of social recognition, salvation, being clean, obed ient, responsible, and self-controlled. Moreover, openness correlated positively in all three samples with the maturity and self-direction v alues composites, and negatively with the achievement and restrictive conformity composites. Results suggest that, more than the other dimen sions of personality, openness to experience best accounts for what pe ople value in their lives. The results also imply that people value qu alities that they already possess. We conclude with a discussion of ho w traits and values relate more broadly and with speculations on the p ossible origins of openness. (C) 1996 Academic Press, Inc.