Lower order structure of conscientiousness and the prediction of health behaviors

The relationship between the personality trait of conscientiousness and health behaviors has been well established in the social sciences literature. Because health and longevity are such intimately important life outcomes, it is critical to test these relationships using multiple methodologically rigorous techniques. In a series of three studies we examined the relationship between the lower order facets of the latent trait of conscientiousness and health behaviors. Through the application of meta-analytical techniques and structural equation modeling we attempted to determine if the relationship between the latent trait of conscientiousness and health behaviors was being driven by one or more of the lower order facets underlying the overall trait. We compiled seven data sets that used facet level assessments of conscientiousness to test the utility of these lower levels of personality assessment. Although the currently available health behavior measures are far from ideal, we conclude that some incremental validity can be gained through detailed assessment of selected conscientiousness facets