The 16PF Questionnaire: Global Factors - Definitions
     

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Extraversion (EX)

Introversion

Extraversion

Low Scorers tend to value time spent alone or in solitary pursuits, being generally less inclined to seek out interaction with others. The introvert can have one or more of these qualities: personal aloofness and a tendency to make few close connections; caution, restraint and a tendency to take life seriously; an inclination to be shy or fearful about reaching out to others; discomfort about revealing personal information; and/or a preference for working alone and functioning autonomously.

High Scorers tend to be people-oriented, to seek interaction with others, and to value time spent with others, in social pursuits. The extravert can have one or more of these qualities: warmth and a wish to feel close connections with people; a lively, stimulating social energy; comfort in the company of others; bold gregariousness; and/or a tendency to be forthright and self-disclosing. A high EX score, however, doesn't guarantee the relationship quality.


Anxiety (AX)

Low Anxiety

High Anxiety

Low Scorers tend to be unperturbed by most events and less easily upset than most people. They can be: emotionally stable, facing life's challenges with calm and stability; trusting of others; unworried and self-assured; and/or relaxed and placid. Extremely low scorers may minimize the ways that life or personal limitations can pose stress or challenges, or may be so comfortable that they are not motivated to change.

High Scorers tend to be more easily upset by events; they are more perturbed, both by internal thoughts and feelings as well as by external events. This may be characteristic or may be due to current life stress. Anxious people can experience one or more of the following: feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with day-to-day living; being suspicious or doubting of others; worrying and self-doubting; and/or feeling tense, driven, or frustrated.


Tough-Mindedness (TM)

Receptivity

Tough-Mindedness

Low Scorers tend to be open to feelings, imagination, people, and new ideas. Their approach may focus on: emotional and aesthetic sensibilities; ideas and thoughts, especially imaginative ones; caring connections with people; or experimenting and trying new approaches. They may overlook the need to be practical, objective, or realistic in dealing with the world.

High Scorers tend to prefer logical, realistic solutions. They may focus on: objectivity (as opposed to sentimentality); practical, concrete things rather than abstract ideas or theories; keeping things on an impersonal level; and valuing methods that are traditional and proven. Extreme tough-mindedness may result in resolute entrenchment and avoidance of new or imaginative approaches.


Independence (IN)

Accommodation

Independence

Low Scorers tend to be agreeable and accommodating to other people and external influences rather than being self-determining. They may be uncomfortable in situations that call for independence or assertiveness. Low scorers have varying degrees of deference, cooperation, shyness, trust, and adherence to the status quo. Their ability to accommodate others' wishes often comes at their own expense, and may frustrate others who desire more active participation from them.

High Scorers tend to take charge of situations and to influence others rather than be influenced. Their active stance on life can include one or more of these elements: dominance and an unwillingness to acquiesce; social boldness and fearlessness; skepticism of others, especially about being controlled; and willingness to question and improve on the status quo. High scorers can be seen as disagreeable by others who feel challenged or controlled. They may find it hard to accommodate others when it is important to do so.


Self-Control (SC)

Lack of Restraint

Self-Control

Low Scorers are unrestrained and tend to have fewer resources for controlling their behavior. They may find it hard to place limits on their own urges or to focus their attention. They may be: spontaneous, carefree or impulsive; non-conforming, or inattentive to rules and regulations; so caught up in internal thoughts that they don't focus on practicalities; or so undisciplined and casual that they do not plan, organize, or persevere. While perceived as flexible, playful and casual, low scorers can also be seen as unreliable, expedient, or careless.

High Scorers are conscientious and have substantial resources for controlling their behavior and meeting their responsibilities. These resources may include one or more of these qualities: being cautious, restrained, and taking matters seriously; placing importance on following rules and meeting expectations; being practical, focused, and realistic; being self-disciplined, goal-oriented, and organized. While they tend to be seen as conscientious, responsible, and reliable, high scorers can also be seen as overly controlled -- that is, too serious or moralistic or task-oriented.

 

 

Portions of this site were extracted from the 16PF Fifth Edition Administrator's Manual authored by Mary T. Russell, M.S., and Darcie Karol, M.A. Definitions of the Primary Factors and Global Factors were authored by Mary T. Russell, M.S., Heather E.P. Cattell, Ph.D., and IPAT staff.