Personality traits remain mostly stable

A study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Psychology found that the main personality traits from the Big Five model remain largely stable in adults over several years. Researchers looked at how these traits change in people aged 33 to 42 using data from a long-term study in Finland called the Jyvaskyla longitudinal study on personality and social development.

Changes in specific traits observed

The study found that the average level of neuroticism, which refers to the tendency to experience negative emotions, decreased between the ages of 33 and 42. Meanwhile, the average levels of traits such as extraversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and professional conscientiousness increased during the same period.

Life events can influence personality

According to a study available on ScienceDirect, certain life events such as marriage, trauma, entering the job market, or dealing with long-term health problems can lead to changes in personality. These events may influence how people perceive themselves and interact with the world around them.

Changing personality is possible but challenging

The research suggests that while it is very difficult to change one's core personality traits, it is not impossible. The study indicates that self-reflection or working with a therapist can help individuals evolve and adjust their traits. The goal is to find balance between one's strengths and weaknesses and to accept oneself as they are.

Accepting others' traits is important

This finding also highlights the importance of understanding that changing someone else's personality may be difficult, if not impossible. It encourages people to accept others as they are, rather than trying to alter their fundamental character traits.