The basic trait of Antagonism: An unfortunately underappreciated construct

Publication date: Available online 30 May 2019Source: Journal of Research in PersonalityAuthor(s): Donald R. Lynam, Joshua D. MillerAbstractAntagonism, the low pole of Agreeableness, references traits related to immorality, combativeness, grandiosity, callousness, and distrustfulness. It is a robust correlate of externalizing behaviors such as antisocial behavior, aggression, and substance use; in fact, in many cases, it is the strongest trait correlate. It represents the core of many important and impactful psychopathological constructs (e.g., psychopathy, antisocial and narcissistic personality disorders). It is also central to models of general and disordered personality, psychopathology, and interpersonal behavior. As Neuroticism is core to understanding the intense distress and suffering that comes with internalizing disorders, Antagonism is core to understanding the impairment and suffering (to the individual and society at large) that comes with externalizing disorders.

Source: Journal of Research in Personality - May 31, 2019 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research