The Relationships Between Five Factor Personality Traits and Self-Control and Self-Management

Abstract

This study examines the relationships between the Big Five personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience) and self-control and self- management (SCM) among university students. Utilizing a quantitative, correlational design, the research analyzed data from 207 undergraduate students (116 females, 91 males) enrolled in various academic programs at a public university in Istanbul. Participants completed the Big Five Personality Inventory (BFPI) and the Self-Control and Self-Management Scale (SCMS), both validated for Turkish samples. Findings revealed significant correlations between SCM and personality traits. Conscientiousness emerged as the strongest positive predictor of SCM, underscoring its role in fostering goal-oriented behaviors and self-regulation. Neuroticism showed a moderate negative correlation, indicating its detrimental effects on emotional stability and self-regulatory capacities. Extraversion and openness to experience demonstrated moderate positive associations with SCM, highlighting the contributions of sociability, adaptability, and creativity. Agreeableness exhibited a weaker but significant positive correlation with SCM, reflecting the supportive influence of cooperative tendencies. Gender differences were observed in specific traits, with females scoring higher in conscientiousness and neuroticism, while males reported slightly higher levels of extraversion. However, no significant gender differences in SCM were detected. These findings have practical implications for psychological counseling and educational interventions. Strategies emphasizing time management and emotional regulation may enhance self-regulation, particularly for students with high neuroticism or low conscientiousness. Future research should explore cultural influences and longitudinal dynamics to deepen understanding of these relationships. The study contributes to the growing evidence on personality’s role in shaping self-regulation and well-being.