Personality Correlates of Midlife Cardiometabolic Risk: The Explanatory Role of Higher‐Order Factors of the Five‐Factor Model

• DOI: 10.1111/jopy.12216
• Publication Date: 2015-08-06T23:51:01Z
• Authors: Sarah S. Dermody; Aidan G. C. Wright; JeeWon Cheong; Karissa G. Miller; Matthew F. Muldoon; Janine D. Flory; Peter J. Gianaros; Anna L. Marsland; Stephen B. Manuck
• Keywords: Conscientiousness; Trait

Varying associations are reported between Five-Factor Model (FFM) personality traits and cardiovascular disease risk. Here, we further examine dispositional correlates of cardiometabolic risk within a hierarchical model that proposes higher-order Stability (shared variance Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, inverse Neuroticism) Plasticity (Extraversion, Openness), test hypothesized mediation via biological behavioral factors. In an observational study 856 community volunteers aged 30-54 years (46% male, 86% Caucasian), latent variable FFM (using multiple-informant reports) aggregated (indicators: insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, blood pressure, adiposity) were estimated using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The was regressed on each or trait. Cross-sectional indirect effects systemic inflammation, cardiac autonomic control, physical activity tested. CFA models confirmed the "meta-trait," but not Plasticity. Lower associated with heightened This association accounted for by function, activity. Among traits, only Openness over above Stability, and, unlike this relationship unexplained intervening variables. A meta-trait covaries midlife risk, is three candidate