The five-factor model (FFM) of personality is implicit in lay concepti
ons of personality; this research sought to examine laypersons' explic
it grasp Of the model. In one study, undergraduates (N = 233) were giv
en definitions of the five factors and asked to identify adjectives kn
own to be associated with each. In a second study, the rated diagnosti
city of behaviors in three contexts was compared with their actual cor
relation with self-reported and acquaintance-rated personality factors
. In the final study, undergraduates (N = 76) grouped 30 adjectives in
to clusters of traits. Results suggest that most laypersons can easily
grasp the nature of the factors and their behavioral manifestations a
nd can spontaneously recognize their grouping when provided with clear
exemplars.