| dc.description.abstract | Objective: The current study investigates whether personality has an effect on problem behaviour and competence in children aged 11 to 13 years. Method: A total of 574 students with an average age from 11 to 13 years participated in the study. They individually completed questionnaires about personality, problem behaviour and competence. These filled out questionnaires were processed and analysed through multiple regression analyses. Results: Multiple regression analyses showed a negative effect of conscientiousness, emotional stability and agreeableness on aggressive behaviour. Extraversion and openness to experience had a positive effect. Additionally, extraversion and emotional stability showed a negative effect on anxious/depressive behaviour, whereas no significant effect was found for agreeableness, conscientiousness and openness to experience. Extraversion, agreeableness and emotional stability have a positive effect on perceived social acceptance. However, conscientiousness and openness to experience show no significant effect. Finally, a positive effect was found of agreeableness and emotional stability on self-esteem, though extraversion, conscientiousness and openness to experience show no significant effect. Conclusion: Personality has an effect on problem behaviour and competence. The five domains of personality - extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability and openness to experience – each show different effects on aggressive, anxious/depressive behaviour, experiencing social acceptance and self-esteem. Limitations and suggestions for future studies are discussed. | |
