How does the University of Limerick study link personality to lifespan?

The University of Limerick study found that traits like neuroticism increase mortality risk, while conscientiousness decreases it, impacting lifespan significantly.

Which personality traits are linked to a higher risk of early death?

High levels of neuroticism, characterized by anxiety and emotional instability, were linked to a significantly higher risk of dying earlier.

What personality trait was found to significantly lower mortality risk?

Conscientiousness, a trait associated with being organized, disciplined, and goal-oriented, was linked to a substantially lower risk of death.

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Personality Traits Predict Early Death Risk

16 Dec

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Summary

Certain personality traits significantly influence lifespan.
High neuroticism is linked to a 3% increased death risk per point.
Conscientiousness lowers mortality risk by 10% per point.

Personality Traits Predict Early Death Risk

Major research from the University of Limerick indicates that personality traits can substantially influence how long individuals live. The study, analyzing data from nearly 570,000 people across four continents, found that characteristics such as anxiety and organization levels played a significant role in mortality risk.

Specifically, higher levels of neuroticism, marked by anxiety and worry, were linked to an increased risk of early death. Each one-point rise in neuroticism correlated with a three percent higher mortality risk. In contrast, conscientiousness, defined by organization and discipline, showed a protective effect, with each point associated with a ten percent reduction in death risk.

These findings suggest that personality is a critical driver of health and longevity, comparable in impact to factors like income and education. The research highlights the potential for developing awareness around health behaviors and coping mechanisms influenced by personality to promote longer, healthier lives.