According to the evolutionary approach to personality, humans have evolved special sensitivity to variations in the tendency to be reliable and ethical, which is closely associated with which of the following Big Five personality traits?
a. Neuroticism
b. Extraversion
c. Agreeableness
d. Conscientiousness
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
d. Conscientiousness
Explanation:
The evolutionary approach to personality suggests that personality traits have developed over time because they provided survival and reproductive advantages. Conscientiousness, one of the Big Five personality traits, refers to an individual’s tendency to be responsible, organized, reliable, and ethical. It plays a crucial role in human social interactions, cooperation, and group living.
1. Evolutionary Significance of Conscientiousness
Humans have evolved in social groups where trustworthiness and reliability are essential for survival. Those who were dependable and followed social norms were more likely to be included in cooperative relationships, leading to increased chances of survival and reproduction.
- Reliability and Survival: In ancestral environments, being dependable meant fulfilling important tasks such as hunting, gathering, and protecting the group. A person who consistently contributed to group efforts was more likely to gain support from others.
- Ethical Behavior and Group Cohesion: Ethical individuals were more likely to follow group norms and avoid behaviors like deception or theft. Groups with more conscientious members would have been more stable and successful.
2. Conscientiousness and Modern Society
In modern times, conscientious individuals tend to be more successful in work, relationships, and long-term goal achievement. They are perceived as trustworthy and ethical, making them ideal for leadership roles and teamwork.
3. Why Not Other Traits?
- Neuroticism (a) is more related to emotional instability and anxiety.
- Extraversion (b) focuses on sociability and enthusiasm rather than reliability.
- Agreeableness (c) relates to compassion and cooperation but not necessarily responsibility and ethical behavior.
Thus, conscientiousness best explains humans’ evolutionary sensitivity to reliability and ethical behavior.